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Zinc and copper homeostasis is crucial to maintain the cellular health and their role in viral diseases including COVID-19
Author :Sneha Mondal a, Sounik Manna b, Tarun Kr. Barik c and Santi M. Mandal *d
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ABSTRACT
Both, zinc and copper play important roles in human metabolic processes. In humans, zinc (Zn) is required directly for the chemical catalysis and/or maintaining the structure of nearly 10% of total body proteins. It plays a significant role not only in immune defence but also takes part in DNA and protein synthesis, growth and development throughout the life span as well as in tissue repair. On the other hand, copper (Cu) is crucial to strengthen the skin, epithelial tissue, connective tissue and blood vessels. Cu helps to increase the level of haemoglobin, melanin and myelin in our body. Both of these trace metals possess antioxidant like properties. However, it is necessary to balance the optimal concentration of Zn or Cu in blood serum to avoid the associated organ damage. Excess zinc intake increases the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) which is harmful to normal renal function and thus elevated the risk of prostate cancer. Similarly, the one and only reason for heart, kidney and liver failure including Wilson disease is the excess amount of copper. Both of these trace metals are responsible to deal with brain diseases. Thus, there are many “faces” of Zn and Cu in the maintenance of cellular network including immunomodulatory regulation and infection prevention. Zinc appears to inhibit the enzymatic processes of viral protease and polymerase, as well as different physical processes for instance virus attachment, inflammation, and viral uncoating. Ideally, the clinicians should monitor zinc status of the individuals and advice for the supplements when necessary, otherwise deficiencyof these micronutrients could lead to the onset of severe secondary diseases.
KEYWORD
Zinc, copper, immunomodulatory, signalling network, viral infection