Title
“Zinc signal”: A new regulatory system involved in physiology and pathogenesis

Toshiyuki Fukada, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist, RIKEN Research Center for Allergy and Immunology Laboratory for Cytokine Signaling

Abstract:
The essential trace element zinc (Zn) is widely required for cellular functions, and abnormal Zn ion (Zn²⁺ ) homeostasis causes a variety of health problems that include growth retardation, immunodeficiency, hypogonadism, and neuronal and sensory dysfunctions (Fig.1). Zn²⁺ homeostasis is regulated through Zn transporters (ZIP family and ZnT family) and permeable channels (Fig.2). Recent studies highlight dynamic actions of Zn²⁺ and its role as a signaling mediator. Advances of genetic approach, that helped discover the key functions of Zn transporters, have begun to reveal why Zn is vital for us: Zn signal participates in regulation of early development, systemic growth, bone formation, endocrine, nerve system, allergy and immunity (Fig.3). This seminar will addresses how Zn²⁺ contributes to physiology and pathogenesis, by highlighting the “Zn signal axis” in modulating intracellular signal transduction to fine-tune cellular functions.

 

Fig.1: “Zinc deficiency”
Discovered by Dr. Ananda Prasad (left) in 1960s.

 

 

Fig.2: Distribution of Zn transporter family members
-Review-
Fukada and Kambe, Metallomics ( 2011) 3: 662-674

 

 

Fig.3: Roles of Zn signal
-Review-
Fukada et al, J. Biol. Inorg. Chem. (2011) 16: 1123-1134