1. Chapter 11: Iron, Zinc, and Copper.
- Author
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Omara, Felix Olima, Brousseau, Pauline, Blakley, Barry Raymond, Fournier, Michel, Zelikoff, Judith T., and Thomas, Peter T.
- Abstract
This section analyzes the potential immunomodulatory effects of iron, zinc and copper. Maintenance of cellular homeostasis of iron, an essential element, is required for many biological processes, including the regulation of immune function. Immune dysfunction may be associated with deficient or excessive levels of iron in the body. Iron deficiency and iron overload produce subtle changes in T-lymphocytes and cellmediated immune functions. Non-specific immunity mediated by macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells can be altered by iron deficiency or overload. Documented cases of zinc overload are scarce, probably due to the fact that zinc does not accumulate under continued exposure. Nevertheless, epidemiological data following occupational exposure to zinc suggest that the main effect of this element is metal fume fever; while this syndrome is not specific to zinc alone, it arises subsequent to inhalation of freshly generated zinc oxide fumes. For normal immune function to occur, adequate intake of the essential trace element copper is required. Nutritional copper deficiency, although rare, can occur in infants, in patients on total parenteral nutrition, and after excessive zinc intake; domesticated animals can also become copper deficient when maintained on diets containing excessive amounts of molybdenum and sulfur. Copper deficiency is characterized by a decrease in serum ceruloplasmin activity.
- Published
- 1998