Correlation of plasma zinc and ileal enterocyte zinc in man

Blood samples and ileal mucosal samples were collected from 25 patients requiring intestinal resections. Plasma zinc levels were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and enterocyte zinc levels were measured using electron probe X-ray analysis. Plasma zinc values showed a positive correlation with mean enterocyte zinc values, supporting the hypothesis that exchange of zinc occurs between these two compartments as part of the homeostasis of this metal in the body.