Novel insight into the role of zinc in the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases

Abstract

Zinc (Zn) homeostasis is largely regulated by the liver, at the same time, Zn is necessary for the maintenance of normal liver function. Therefore, Zn deficiency results in the impairment of hepatocyte function, leading to chronic liver injuries such as hepatic inflammation, fibrosis and steatosis. Numerous metabolic abnormalities, including impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, hepatic encephalopathy, and sarcopenia, are also associated with these chronic liver injuries. Zn supplementation can recover these chronic liver injuries and related metabolic disorders. Recent advances in molecular biological techniques have enabled us to elucidate the putative mechanisms by which chronic liver disorders evoke varieties of metabolic abnormalities derived from Zn deficiency. This review focuses on the most recent discoveries regarding the role of Zn deficiency in chronic liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune liver diseases. Moreover, we would like to verify Zn supplementation on these chronic liver diseases.

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