Zinc is essential for multiple cellular functions, and particularly the immune system depends on an adequate availability of this vital trace element. In the last few decades, several studies had attempted to identify the outcome of various diseases by zinc supplementation. These efforts either had an objective of supporting immunity by zinc administration or by correcting a loss of zinc that is secondary to any disease or to restore the zinc-dependent functions of the immune system. In this review, the particular findings and the possible molecular mechanisms through which zinc might influence viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases, and the response to vaccination have been summarized.

Zinc supplementation in diseases, including diarrhea, chronic hepatitis C, leprosy, tuberculosis, pneumonia, acute lower respiratory infection, shigellosis and leishmaniasis, appears to be very effective. Zinc deficiency and supplementation have known impact on several immune parameters, particularly pro-inflammatory cytokines and T lymphocytes. The effect of zinc on the immune system has a key contribution to the results seen in supplementation trials for different diseases.

 Source: Overbeck S, Rink L, Haase H. Modulating the immune response by oral zinc supplementation: a single approach for multiple diseases. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 2008;56(1):15-30. doi:10.1007/s00005-008-0003-8