Zinc is an essential mineral that all living beings, including human beings, require for their development and Health. Its deficiency can cause a series of health problems, including growth delay, immune system dysfunctions, neurological disorders and even cancer. According to the world Health Organization, more than 17% of the world’s population is at risk of zinc deficiency, which makes this form of malnutrition one of the main taxpayers to diseases and deaths globally.
Once ingested, zinc is absorbed by body cells, where it binds to various proteins to guarantee its correct structure and functioning. It is estimated that up to 10% of all organism proteins require zinc to operate properly. However, despite the importance of zinc in human health, many mechanisms related to its incorporation into essential proteins for cell function are not completely understood. Researchers at the University of Vanderbilt and the University of Indiana have begun to unravel these processes, focusing on how zinc is distributed within the cells, especially in situations of scarcity.
The role of the ZNG1 in the delivery of zinc
In their research, scientists have identified a family of protein called ZNG1, which seems to play a crucial role in transporting zinc to vital proteins. This finding is significant since it suggests that ZNG1 could act as a “metallochaperone”, facilitating zinc insertion into other proteins. Studies carried out in models such as Cebra and Mouses have shown that the absence of ZNG1 under zinc deficiency conditions leads to growth problems and development defects, evidencing its importance for the correct use of zinc in cells. In addition, the investigation reveals that ZNG1 interacts with Metap1, an essential protein for cell survival, which points to the evolutionary relevance of this interaction that has been maintained over millions of years.
This advance in the understanding of the role of ZNG1 could open new ways to address zinc deficiency, helping to identify which cellular processes are the most critical to keep life in a shortage conditions of this mineral. As the study of metallochaperones and their function in the body deepens, more effective strategies can be developed to combat the negative consequences of the lack of zinc in health, especially in more vulnerable populations.
