Zinc as a possible mediator of signal transduction in T lymphocytes

Our recent findings indicate that phorbol esters, the specific activators of protein kinase C induce the translocation of heavy metals (mostly: zinc) from the nucleus and mitochondria to the cytosol and microsomes of T lymphocytes. Phorbol ester treatment impairs the action of Ca-ionophores, this effect is mediated by intracellular heavy metal ions (most probably: by zinc). Zinc activates cytosolic protein kinase C, increases its affinity towards phorbol esters and contributes to its binding to plasma membranes. These results suggest that zinc may play a role in the "cross-talk" of second messengers and hence in signal transduction in T lymphocytes.