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Published on: October 29, 2017
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Zinc in Cognitive Impairment and Aging
Ruize Sun1, Jue Wang1, Juan Feng1
1Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao St., Shenyang 110004, China.
Biomolecules
|July 27, 2022
Summary
Zinc is vital for brain development and function. This review explores how zinc deficiency impacts cognitive impairment and aging, highlighting potential therapeutic interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Zinc is an essential micronutrient crucial for mammalian development.
- It plays a key role in central nervous system development and function.
- Zinc deficiency is linked to various health issues, including neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of zinc and associated proteins in cognitive impairment and aging.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.
- To identify potential interventions for zinc-related cognitive decline and aging.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on zinc, cognitive impairment, and aging.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms involving zinc and its associated proteins.
- Synthesis of findings to identify therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Zinc is critical for normal brain development and cognitive function.
- Deficiency is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, mental abnormalities, and premature aging.
- Specific molecular pathways involving zinc and proteins are implicated in cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Zinc homeostasis is essential for maintaining cognitive function and healthy aging.
- Understanding zinc's molecular mechanisms offers pathways for novel therapeutic strategies.
- Interventions targeting zinc metabolism may mitigate age-related cognitive impairment.
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