Although zinc may appear last on nutrition labels, it’s the second-most abundant trace element in our bodies, behind only iron. (Trace elements are molecules our bodies need in small amounts to stay healthy). Zinc is crucial for a well-functioning immune system, wound healing, physical growth, the senses of taste and smell, and the construction of proteins and DNA. It can also partner with oxygen to form zinc oxide, a compound that scatters ultraviolet light and can act as a protective barrier over inflamed skin. Many sunscreens, burn ointments, diaper creams, and other skin treatments contain zinc oxide.

Zinc may help shorten colds, and it’s part of a compound that can protect skin from ultraviolet light. The element is also used to coat other metals and prevent rusting. Credit: Compound Interest. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0.

Zapping Invaders Requires Zinc

Zinc supports the immune system in combating invaders like this rotavirus, which causes severe diarrhea in infants and young children. Credit: National Resource for Automated Molecular Microscopy, The Scripps Research Institute.

Zinc helps our bodies fight off dangerous invaders. Even mild cases of zinc deficiency—when the body doesn’t have enough zinc—can impair the immune system, which is the body’s defense against bacteria, viruses, and other threats to our health. Luckily, zinc deficiency is rare in the United States because the mineral is in a variety of foods we eat. The condition is more common in developing countries. Scientists are studying zinc to learn more about its effects on the immune system and its potential to prevent or treat a variety of health issues.

NIGMS-Supported Zinc Research

NIGMS funds scientists exploring a range of topics related to zinc. Some of these researchers are:

• Investigating zinc’s role in neurons, particularly those involved in sound processing.
• Developing molecules that target the zinc in an enzyme that’s likely involved in the development of type 2 diabetes to inhibit the enzyme. These molecules could ultimately be developed into medicines for diabetes.
• Determining how bacteria take in zinc from their environment. Bacteria need zinc to thrive. So once scientists know how they obtain the element, they can develop new antibiotics that target these processes, depriving bacteria of zinc and thereby killing them.

Check out our other posts on elements.