Essential Micronutrient Elements

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Abstract
A brief review of the biochemical and physiological effects of zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and cadmium has been presented. These elements, vital to the enzymatic process of the living cells, are stored in the liver. A disturbance in the metabolism of one or more of these elements has been noted in various disorders of the liver in man. In portal cirrhosis, a decrease in the content of zinc in plasma, red blood cells, liver, and hair has been noted. Excretion of zinc in the urine is increased; the mechanism of this is not well understood. Activity of the liver alcohol dehydrogenase (a zinc-dependent enzyme) is decreased in cirrhosis of the liver. In addition to the above-mentioned changes, the content of manganese and molybdenum in the liver of a significant number of these patients has been noted to be decreased, whereas copper contents are increased. It is conceivable that some of the clinical manifestations of cirrhosis of the liver could be related to the changes in the contents of essential micronutrient elements in the liver. At present, the knowledge in this area is scanty and undoubtedly future research is needed. Clinical and biochemical aspects of Wilson’s disease, a disorder characterized by an abnormal copper metabolism and cirrhosis of the liver, have also been discussed.