Zinc deficiency adversely influences interleukin-4 and interleukin-6 signaling.
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| Abstract |
Zinc deficiency is accompanied by a severe impairment of the immune system, causing a high risk for infections and autoimmune diseases due to altered functionality of B- and T- cells. The influence of zinc deficiency on T- and B- cells via alteration of cytokine expression is well established. The aim of this study was to examine potential direct effects of zinc deficiency on the reactivity of B- and T- cells. Zinc deficient B- and T- cells revealed divergent reaction patterns compared to zinc sufficienT-cells. This was manifested by a stronger proliferative response following IL-6 and IL-2 stimulation on the one hand, but less proliferation following IL-4 stimulation on the other hand. Moreover, these results were supported by the finding that the B- and T-cell signaling cascades activated by IL-4 or IL-6, respectively, were affected directly by zinc deficiency, resulting in reduced Stat6 phosphorylation and increased Stat3 phosphorylation. Whereas the transcription factor Stat6 is involved in IL-4 signaling, Stat3 is activated by IL-6 signaling. Consequently, these results show opposing effects of zinc deficiency on IL-4 and IL-6/IL-2 signaling pathways, thus underlying the importance of zinc for proper immune function.
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| Authors | K Gruber, M Maywald, E Rosenkranz, H Haase, B Plumakers, L Rink |
| Journal | Journal of biological regulators and homeostatic agents (J Biol Regul Homeost Agents) 2013 Jul-Sep Vol. 27 Issue 3 Pg. 661-71 ISSN: 0393-974X [Print] Italy |
| PMID | 24152835 (Publication Type: Journal Article) |
| Chemical References |
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