Is zinc needed for protein metabolism?

Objective: Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that is a potent enhancer of protein metabolism due to its numerous roles in metabolic processes. Protein turnover decreases with age.

What does zinc do to proteins?

Not only is zinc required for essential catalytic functions in enzymes (more than 300 are known at present), but also it stabilizes and even induces the folding of protein subdomains.

What are the products of protein metabolism?

The most important functions of the liver in protein metabolism are (1) deamination of amino acids for use as energy or conversion into fats and carbohydrates, (2) synthesis and interconversion of amino acids and other metabolically important compounds, (3) formation of urea for excretion of ammonia, and (4) formation …

What is the role of zinc in metabolism?

Zinc is an essential component of a large number (>300) of enzymes participating in the synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids as well as in the metabolism of other micronutrients.

How does zinc deficiency affect the protein metabolism?

Zinc deficiency, which is frequently observed in patients with chronic liver disease, significantly affects protein metabolism. Ornithine transcarbamylase is a zinc enzyme involved in the urea cycle. Its activity decreases because of zinc deficiency, thereby reducing hepatic capacity to metabolize ammonia.

How are zip transporters involved in zinc metabolism?

Zip4, the main Zip transporter, as well as Zip5, Zip14, ZnT1, ZnT2, and ZnT4–7, are expressed in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas and are involved in the absorption and secretion of zinc [18], [19]. However, the mechanisms by which these transporters contribute to zinc metabolism in patients with liver disease remain to be elucidated.

What are the names of the proteins that transport zinc?

Zinc transporter proteins are responsible for keeping zinc at certain concentrations. Based on their predicted membrane topology, Zn transporters are divided into two major families, SLC39s/ZIPs and SLC30s/ZnTs, which transport Zn in opposite directions through cellular and intracellular membranes.

Where can I find nutritional recommendations for zinc?

Intake recommendations for zinc and other nutrients are provided in the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) developed by the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies (formerly National Academy of Sciences) [ 2 ].