Zinc deficiency may be a contributor to chronic inflammation plaguing HIV-positive individuals, according to researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
In a study published in the journal Biological Trace Element Research, Krishna Poudel and colleagues detailed the findings of their research, which is believed to be the first to explore the connection between levels of serum zinc inflammation in people diagnosed with HIV and taking anti-retroviral therapy. They drew inspiration from several studies suggesting that zinc may have an important role to play in the health of HIV-positive individuals.
The researchers noted that zinc has anti-inflammatory properties, and low levels of the mineral is a common abnormality observed in HIV-positive individuals. However, it has not been determined if simply taking zinc supplements will alleviate inflammation.
Based on their findings, Poudel and colleagues saw a significant relationship involving concentration levels of serum zinc and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), with levels of the micronutrient higher in individuals with lower levels of CRP.
A biomarker for inflammation, CRP has been associated with a number of factors affecting the progression of HIV and has been the subject of an extensive epidemiological investigation because the protein is an independent predictor of survival as well.
For the study, Poudel established the Positive Living with HIV study, a cohort involving some 322 men and women with HIV in the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. The researchers then conducted a cross-sectional survey with the participants, measuring serum zinc and CRP levels, having questionnaires filled out, carrying out in-person interviews, taking blood samples and using Indian food tables as a reference for ideal zinc and CRP levels.
After adjusting for clinical factors, lifestyle and demographics, the researchers found that average levels of CRP dramatically increased when levels of serum zinc increased. This was true across all age groups and in both men and women.
For further research, Poudel and colleagues suggest prospective design studies to eliminate the possibility that chronic inflammation is influencing levels of serum zinc.
If confirmed, findings from the current study can lead in the development of intervention strategies that incorporate inflammation reduction in improving the quality of life and health of HIV-positive individuals.
Kalpana Poudel-Tandukar and Elizabeth Bertone-Johnson also contributed to the study.
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