Trace elements and Immunity: A brief overview

Abstract

Trace elements or micronutrients play a vital role in the human body. They are required as cofactors and function with enzymes to catalyze various biochemical reactions. Around 14 trace elements are found in the human body which are crucial to various physiological and biological functions in the cells. Some of these elements have therapeutic potential. Impaired immunity and increased susceptibility to infections are a few responses that develop under nutritional deficiency of these trace elements. A comprehensive literature search was accomplished on PubMed, SCOPUS and Google Scholar to identify articles on trace elements and their pivotal role in immunity. Antibody responses, cell-mediated immunity and natural killer (NK) cell activity are few of the immune processes likely to be influenced by trace element levels. Elements such as zinc, selenium and other trace elements activate the cytokine-mediated immune response by triggering the synthesis of TH1 cells and proinflammatory cytokines. In addition, some trace elements possess antiviral properties, interfering with the entry and replication of the viruses. Based on the above perspectives and the significance of trace elements in immunity, the current review was undertaken to shed light on the role of trace elements important in immunity.