[Zinc signaling : a novel regulatory system on bone homeostasis, and immune and allergic responses]

Clin Calcium. 2012 Nov;22(11):1707-27.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element that is required for proliferation, differentiation, and variety of cellular functions, and unbalanced homeostasis of Zn ion (Zn(2 + )) results in health problems such as abnormal bone formation and immunodeficiency. Recent studies have shed light on important roles of Zn(2 + )as a signaling mediator, called Zn signal. Zn(2 + )homeostasis is regulated through Zn transporters and cation channels. Advances of genetic and molecular approaches have revealed that Zn signal regulates mammalian physiology and pathogenesis. We will address that Zn signal undoubtedly contributes to our health, by highlighting it in bone homeostasis and immune regulation, and discuss that the "Zn signal axis" selectively controls intracellular signal transduction to fine-tune cellular functions.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bone and Bones / immunology*
  • Bone and Bones / metabolism
  • Cell Communication / immunology
  • Cell Communication / physiology
  • Homeostasis*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Zinc / immunology*

Substances

  • Zinc