EFFECT OF MARGINAL ZINC-DEFICIENCY ON HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Growth and development disorders in humans caused by zinc (Zn) deficie ncy have been investigated for a long time. Although marginal Zn defic iency is a common nutritional problem around the world, especially in the children of developing countries,where diets have less Zn availabl e, it is difficult to identify. This review provides the progression o f studies in the effect of Zn deficiency on human growth and developme nt, and also explains the possible mechanisms of how Zn promotes these phenomena. These mechanisms involve the effects of Zn on DNA synthesi s, RNA synthesis, and cell division. The concept of Zn-finger proteins explains the role of Zn in gene expression and endocrine function. Fi ndings indicate that Zn deficiency can result in delayed growth and de velopment which can be corrected in part by Zn supplementation.