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The effect of zinc on cellular immunity in chronic uremia
Abstract:
Delayed hypersensitivity to mumps was examined in 25 apparently well-nourished men receiving regular hemodialysis, each of whom had a history of mumps. A positive reaction was observed in eight of nine patients already under therapy with zinc added to the dialysis bath. In contrast, 11 of 16 untreated patients were anergic. Four of the anergic patients were subsequently treated with zinc resulting in restoration of sensitivity in three patients. There were no significant differences in lymphocyte, monocyte, or T-cell counts between the two groups of patients. Consequently, zinc probably acts by improving the function of one or more of these cell types. Protracted zinc deficiency may be a major cause of impaired cellular immunity in chronic renal failure.
Insights
Zinc supplementation in hemodialysis patients with a history of mumps restored cellular immunity. This suggests zinc deficiency impairs immune function in chronic kidney disease, highlighting its importance for cellular immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nephrology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Patients undergoing regular hemodialysis often exhibit impaired cellular immunity.
- Mumps-specific delayed hypersensitivity is a marker for cellular immune function.
- Chronic renal failure is associated with potential nutritional deficiencies, including zinc.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of zinc in delayed hypersensitivity responses in hemodialysis patients.
- To determine if zinc supplementation can restore cellular immune function in anergic patients.
Main Methods:
- Examined delayed hypersensitivity to mumps in 25 hemodialysis patients.
- Compared immune responses between patients receiving zinc in dialysis and untreated patients.
- Assessed lymphocyte, monocyte, and T-cell counts.
Main Results:
- Eight of nine patients receiving zinc via dialysis showed a positive hypersensitivity reaction.
- Eleven of sixteen untreated patients were anergic (lacked a hypersensitivity response).
- Three of four anergic patients treated with zinc regained sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Zinc supplementation appears to restore cellular immune function in hemodialysis patients.
- Zinc likely enhances the function of immune cells like lymphocytes, monocytes, or T-cells.
- Prolonged zinc deficiency may be a significant factor in the impaired immunity seen in chronic renal failure.