Zinc deficiency

Zinc deficiency is a condition in which zinc levels are insufficient to support physiological processes. It can be caused by inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption, increased loss, or increased physiological demand. Zinc is an essential mineral involved in immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, apoptosis regulation, and normal growth and development[1][2][3][4][5][7][9]. Deficiency may present with symptoms such as impaired wound healing, increased susceptibility to infection, taste/smell disturbances, skin rashes, hair loss, delayed growth or puberty (in children), and neurological changes. Treatment is through zinc supplementation, which is generally safe but may cause adverse effects if dosed excessively[1][3][7]. In summary, "Zinc deficiency" is a disease state, not a molecule or receptor, and thus it is not a direct therapeutic target as defined in molecular pharmacology. If you are seeking information on zinc-dependent targets (such as zinc transporters/enzymes or receptors), please specify the molecule or protein of interest.

Other names

Zinc insufficiencyHypozincemiaLow zinc status

Restoration of zinc levels—supplementation provides elemental zinc, which restores normal enzyme and cellular functions dependent on zinc[1][3][7].