Association between concentration of trace elements in serum and bronchial asthma among Japanese general population

Dietary intake, antioxidants, minerals and vitamins in relation to childhood asthma: a Mendelian randomization study

Background

Currently, there is limited and inconsistent evidence regarding the risk association between daily dietary intake, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins with Childhood Asthma (CA). Therefore, this study employs Mendelian Randomization (MR) methodology to systematically investigate the causal relationships between daily dietary intake, serum antioxidants, serum minerals, and the circulating levels of serum vitamins with CA.

Methods

This study selected factors related to daily dietary intake, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and sugars, as well as serum antioxidant levels (lycopene, uric acid, and β-carotene), minerals (calcium, copper, selenium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, and magnesium), and vitamins (vitamin A, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E), using them as Instrumental Variables (IVs). Genetic data related to CA were obtained from the FinnGen and GWAS Catalog databases, with the primary analytical methods being Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW) and sensitivity analysis.

Results

Following MR analysis, it is observed that sugar intake (OR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.55-0.91, P: 0.01) is inversely correlated with the risk of CA, while the intake of serum circulating magnesium levels (OR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.06-2.53, P: 0.03), fats (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.06-1.95, P: 0.02), and serum vitamin D levels (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.04-1.25, P: 0.02) are positively associated with an increased risk of CA.

Conclusion

This study identified a causal relationship between the daily dietary intake of sugars and fats, as well as the magnesium and vitamin D levels in serum, and the occurrence of CA. However, further in-depth research is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these associations.

A case-control study on asthma and obese patients: Influence of lifestyle patterns, serum trace elements, heavy metals, and total antioxidants

Background and aim

Asthma is a chronic airway hyperresponsiveness disorder and Obese people have greater rates of asthma incidence and prevalence. Obesity, a complex condition, can cause nutritional metabolic problems that change trace elements and minerals. Trace element and antioxidant levels affect asthma aetiology. In this study, we aim to determine the serum levels of trace elements Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, Co, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Cr, total antioxidants (TAS), and lifestyle that determine specific clinical conditions in asthma and obesity patients from Vellore City (Tamil Nadu, India).

Methods

A case-control study to determine the level of the serum trace elements with 838 subjects (n = 242 asthma patients, n = 140 asthmatic obese, n = 185 obese patients, and n = 271 controls) between the ages of 20 and 60 years was carried out. Asthma was diagnosed based on the clinical examination and pulmonary function tests. Trace element levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) in serum, and a DPPH-free radical scavenging assay was used to determine the total antioxidant capacity level in serum.

Result

In asthma male patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb, Cd, and Cr significantly higher, whereas in female asthma patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb significantly higher. In asthmatic obese male patients, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower, and Pb, Cd, and Co were significantly higher; in asthmatic obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower, and Ni was significantly higher. In obese male patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower and Cd was significantly higher, and in obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower.

Conclusion

The influence of the level of trace elements, heavy metal, total antioxidant, and the lifestyle patterns, may increase the risk of asthma and obesity.

Relationship between serum iron and blood eosinophil counts in asthmatic adults: data from NHANES 2011-2018

Background

So far, quite a few studies have revealed that systemic iron levels are related to asthmatic inflammatory reactions. And most studies have focused on the correlation between systemic iron levels and asthma, with inconsistent findings. Yet, few studies have investigated the connection between serum iron and blood eosinophil counts. Hence, we have explored the connection between serum iron and blood eosinophil counts in asthmatics by utilizing data from NHANES.

Methods

A total of 2549 individuals were included in our study after screening NHANES participants from 2011 to 2018. The linear regression model and XGBoost model were used to discuss the potential connection. Linear or nonlinear association was further confirmed by the generalized additive model and the piecewise linear regression model. And we also performed stratified analyses to figure out specific populations.

Results

In the multivariable linear regression models, we discovered that serum iron levels were inversely related to blood eosinophil counts in asthmatic adults. Simultaneously, we found that for every unit increase in serum iron (umol/L), blood eosinophil counts reduced by 1.41/uL in model 3, which adjusted for all variables excluding the analyzed variables. Furthermore, the XGBoost model of machine learning was applied to assess the relative importance of chosen variables, and it was determined that vitamin C intake, age, vitamin B12 intake, iron intake, and serum iron were the five most important variables on blood eosinophil counts. And the generalized additive model and piecewise linear regression model further verify this linear and inverse association.

Conclusion

Our investigation discovered that the linear and inverse association of serum iron with blood eosinophil counts in asthmatic adults, indicating that serum iron might be related to changes in the immunological state of asthmatics. Our work offers some new thoughts for next research on asthma management and therapy. Ultimately, we hope that more individuals become aware of the role of iron in the onset, development, and treatment of asthma.

Association between Exposure to Selected Heavy Metals and Blood Eosinophil Counts in Asthmatic Adults: Results from NHANES 2011-2018

(1) Background: Heavy metals are widely used and dispersed in the environment and people's daily routines. Many studies have reported an association between heavy metal exposure and asthma. Blood eosinophils play a crucial role in the occurrence, progression, and treatment of asthma. However, there have thus far been few studies that aimed to explore the effects of heavy metal exposure on blood eosinophil counts in adults with asthma. Our study aims to discuss the association between metal exposure and blood eosinophil counts among asthmatic adults. (2) Methods: A total of 2026 asthmatic individuals were involved in our research from NHANES with metal exposure, blood eosinophils, and other covariates among the American population. A regression model, the XGBoost algorithm, and a generalized linear model (GAM) were used to explore the potential correlation. Furthermore, we conducted a stratified analysis to determine high-risk populations. (3) Results: The multivariate regression analysis indicated that concentrations of blood Pb (log per 1 mg/L; coefficient β, 25.39; p = 0.010) were positively associated with blood eosinophil counts. However, the associations between blood cadmium, mercury, selenium, manganese, and blood eosinophil counts were not statistically significant. We used stratified analysis to determine the high-risk group regarding Pb exposure. Pb was identified as the most vital variable influencing blood eosinophils through the XGBoost algorithm. We also used GAM to observe the linear relationship between the blood Pb concentrations and blood eosinophil counts. (4) Conclusions: The study demonstrated that blood Pb was positively correlated with blood eosinophil counts among asthmatic adults. We suggested that long-time Pb exposure as a risk factor might be correlated with the immune system disorder of asthmatic adults and affect the development, exacerbation, and treatment of asthma.

Association between vitamin A and asthma: A meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis

Objective: To explore the association between vitamin A (vit A) status and risk of asthma. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and the Cochrane Library were electronically searched to identify related studies that reported the association between vit A status and asthma. All databases were searched from inception to November 2022. Two reviewers independently screened literature, extracted data, and assessed risk bias of included studies. Meta-analysis was performed on R software Version 4.1.2 and STATA Version 12.0. Results: A total of 19 observational studies were included. A pooled analysis showed that the serum vit A concentrations in patients with asthma was lower than that in healthy controls (standard mean difference (SMD)= -2.479, 95% confidence interval (CI): -3.719, -.239, 95% prediction interval (PI): -7.510, 2.552), and relatively higher vit A intake in pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of asthma at age 7 years (risk ratio (RR)= 1.181, 95% CI: 1.048, 1.331). No significant correlation was observed between serum vit A levels or vit A intake and the risk of asthma. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis confirms that serum vit A levels are lower in patients with asthma than in healthy controls. Relatively higher vit A intake during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of asthma at age 7 years. There is no significant correlation between vit A intake and asthma risk in children, nor between serum vit A levels and asthma risk. The effect of vit A may depend on age or developmental stage, diet and genetics. Therefore, further studies are needed to explore the association of vit A and asthma. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/CRD42022358930, identifier CRD42022358930.

The Role of Zinc in the Pathogenesis of Lung Disease

Lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF), are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity globally. They contribute to substantial economic burdens on society and individuals. Currently, only a few treatments are available to slow the development and progression of these diseases. Thus, there is an urgent unmet need to develop effective therapies to improve quality of life and limit healthcare costs. An increasing body of clinical and experimental evidence suggests that altered zinc and its regulatory protein levels in the systemic circulation and in the lungs are associated with these disease’s development and progression. Zinc plays a crucial role in human enzyme activity, making it an essential trace element. As a cofactor in metalloenzymes and metalloproteins, zinc involves a wide range of biological processes, such as gene transcription, translation, phagocytosis, and immunoglobulin and cytokine production in both health and disease. Zinc has gained considerable interest in these lung diseases because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune, and metabolic modulatory properties. Here we highlight the role and mechanisms of zinc in the pathogenesis of asthma, COPD, CF, acute respiratory distress syndrome, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension.

Association of sedentary behaviour and physical activity with cardiometabolic health in Japanese adults

Although the Asian population exhibits excessive sedentary behaviour and has a high susceptibility to metabolic syndrome (MetS), the nature of these associations remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association of sedentary time with cardiometabolic health and examine the association of reallocating sedentary time to light physical activity (LPA) or moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on cardiometabolic health in Japanese adults. A cross-sectional study was performed using data obtained from 758 Japanese adults. We assessed sedentary time, LPA, and MVPA using an accelerometer. Linear and logistic regression models were used to analyse the association between sedentary time and cardiometabolic risk factors. An isotemporal substitution model was used to estimate the theoretical influence of reallocating sedentary time to LPA or MVPA. A longer sedentary time was associated with worse cardiometabolic health, including MetS. Reallocating 30 min of sedentary time to LPA was significantly associated with lower body mass index, visceral fat, insulin resistance, triglyceride, and MetS levels and increased muscle mass and HDL-C (all P < 0.05). Reallocating 30 min of sedentary time to MVPA was strongly associated with the aforementioned factors. These results demonstrate the potential beneficial effects of reallocating sedentary time to LPA and MVPA on cardiometabolic health of Asians.

Mineral Micronutrients in Asthma

Asthma represents one of the most common medical issues in the modern world. It is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by persistent inflammation of the airways and disturbances in redox status, leading to hyperresponsiveness of bronchi and airway obstruction. Apart from classical risk factors such as air pollution, family history, allergies, or obesity, disturbances of the levels of micronutrients lead to impairments in the defense mechanisms of the affected organism against oxidative stress and proinflammatory stimuli. In the present review, the impact of micronutrients on the prevalence, severity, and possible risk factors of asthma is discussed. Although the influence of classical micronutrients such as selenium, copper, or zinc are well known, the effects of those such as iodine or manganese are only rarely mentioned. As a consequence, the aim of this paper is to demonstrate how disturbances in the levels of micronutrients and their supplementation might affect the course of asthma.

The effect of age on the association between daily gait speed and abdominal obesity in Japanese adults

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of age on the association between daily gait speed (DGS) and abdominal obesity defined by visceral fat area (VFA). A cross-sectional study was performed using data from an annual community-based health check-up. A total of 699 participants aged 20–88 years were enrolled in this analysis. DGS was assessed using tri-axial accelerometers worn for ≥ 7 days with at least 10 measuring hours each day. VFA was measured using a visceral fat meter. Since DGS differed significantly with age, the participants were divided into two groups: younger adults (YA), aged 20–49 years, and older adults (OA), aged 50–88 years. The association between DGS and VFA differed significantly with age (r = 0.099 for YA and r =  − 0.080 for OA; test for difference between correlation coefficients, P = 0.023). In OA, the adjusted odds ratio of abdominal obesity (VFA ≥ 100 cm²) was 0.40 (95% confidence interval 0.18, 0.88, P = 0.022) for the highest DGS quartile (DGS ≥ 1.37 m/s) compared to that for the lowest quartile (DGS < 1.11 m/s), whereas no significant association was found in YA. These data could aid in raising awareness of the self-management of obesity via DGS monitoring, especially in OA.

Lipid Nutrition in Asthma

Asthma is a heterogeneous pulmonary disease that has constantly increased in prevalence over the past several decades. Primary symptoms include airway constriction, airway hyperresponsiveness, and airway remodeling with additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Allergic asthma involves chronic inflammation of the lungs, and the rise in its yearly diagnosis is potentially associated with the increased global consumption of foods similar to the western diet. Thus, there is growing interest into the link between diet and asthma symptoms, with mounting evidence for an important modulatory role for dietary lipids. Lipids can act as biological mediators in both a proinflammatory and proresolution capacity. Fatty acids play key roles in signaling and in the production of mediators in the allergic and inflammatory pathways. The western diet leads to a disproportionate ω-6:ω-3 ratio, with drastically increased ω-6 levels. To counteract this, consumption of fish and fish oil and the use of dietary oils with anti-inflammatory properties such as olive and sesame oil can increase ω-3 and decrease ω-6 levels. Increasing vitamin intake, lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and limiting consumption of oxidized lipids can help reduce the risk of asthma and the exacerbation of asthmatic symptoms. These dietary changes can be achieved by increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, nuts, oily fish, seeds, animal-related foods (eggs, liver), cheeses, grains, oats, and seeds, and decreasing consumption of fried foods (especially fried in reused oils), fast foods, and heavily processed foods.

Evaluation of blood and tooth element status in asthma cases: a preliminary case-control study

Background

Asthma is a common respiratory disorder; some data were present on the correlation between increased levels of trace elements and the risk of asthma development. It was aimed to evaluate the levels of 13 selected blood and tooth elements (magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, chromium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc, strontium, molybdenum, cadmium, lead, mercury) in a well-controlled asthma group and the control group.

Methods

During the study period, 17 asthma patients and 26 age and gender-matched healthy children donated shed deciduous teeth having neither decay nor filling and enrolled for the study. The element levels in blood and teeth matrixes were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Differences in blood and tooth elements in groups were evaluated with generalized linear models after adjusting confounding factors.

Results

After adjusting the child’s “z scores of body mass index for age”, history of iron deficiency anemia, and status of parental smoking, the generalized linear model revealed significantly lower tooth magnesium levels, lower blood zinc levels, and lower blood zinc/copper ratio in the asthma group than the control group (p = 0.042, p = 0.034, p = 0.002, respectively). Other studied elements for tooth and blood matrixes were similar in groups.

Conclusion

Our study revealed some differences in tooth and blood element levels in the asthma group. Further studies on zinc and magnesium levels of severe asthma cases are necessary for the interpretation of the results.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-021-01565-9.

Role of intracellular zinc in molecular and cellular function in allergic inflammatory diseases

Zinc is an essential micronutrient in human body and a vital cofactor for the function of numerous proteins encoded by the human genome. Zinc has a critical role in maintaining many biochemical and physiological processes at the molecular, cellular, and multiple organ and systemic levels. The alteration of zinc homeostasis causes dysfunction of many organs and systems. In the immune system, zinc regulates the differentiation, proliferation and function of inflammatory cells, including T cells, eosinophils, and B cells, by modifying several signaling pathways such as NFκB signaling pathways and TCR signals. An adequate zinc level is essential for proper immune responses and decreased zinc levels were reported in many allergic inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis. Decreased zinc levels often enhance inflammatory activation. On the other hand, the inflammatory conditions alter the intracellular homeostasis of zinc, often decreasing zinc levels. These findings implied that there could be a vicious cycle between zinc deficiency and inflammatory conditions. In this review, we present recent evidence on the involvement of zinc in atopic dermatitis, bronchial asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis, with insights into the involvement of zinc in the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms related to these allergic inflammatory diseases.

Association between selected urinary heavy metals and asthma in adults: a retrospective cross-sectional study of the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Heavy metal in the physical environment may alter immune function and predispose to develop asthma in human. Our study was aimed to investigate associations between urinary heavy metals and asthma in adults. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted with 3425 subjects aged 20 years and older in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2014. Binary logistic regression was applied to analyze associations between cobalt (Co), tungsten (W), and uranium (U) and asthma. We found positive associations between U and asthma (OR = 1.74, 95%CI: 1.25, 2.44, P for trend < 0.01). U was positively associated with asthma in 20-59 years group (OR = 1.65, 95%CI: 1.11, 2.46), while W and Co were related with asthma among in above 60 years group (OR = 2.39, 95%CI: 1.24, 4.58, P for trend = 0.02; OR = 1.88, 95%CI: 1.02, 3.47, respectively). U was linked with asthma in both males and females (OR = 1.93, 95%CI: 1.16, 3.20; OR = 1.59, 95%CI: 1.01, 2.51, respectively). Positive associations between U and asthma were discovered among adults with family history of asthma or not (OR = 2.15, 95%CI: 1.17, 3.95, P for trend = 0.03; OR = 1.62, 95%CI: 1.08, 2.43, P for trend = 0.03, respectively). Remarkable association was observed between U and asthma in adults without hay fever (OR = 1.79, 95%CI: 1.24, 2.60, P for trend = 0.02). Our findings provide epidemiological evidence to highlight a need to prioritize heavy metals exposure with asthma.

Increased Oxidative Stress Underlies Abnormal Pain Threshold in a Normoglycemic Japanese Population

Normal-high HbA1c levels are a risk factor for attenuated pain sensation in normoglycemic subjects. It is unclear, however, what mechanisms underlie the pathogenesis of attenuated pain sensation in such a population. We, therefore, explored the relationship between oxidative stress (OS) and pain sensation in a rural Japanese population. A population-based study of 894 individuals (average age 53.8 ± 0.5 years) and 55 subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were enrolled in this study. Individuals with diabetes were excluded. Relationships between pain threshold induced by intraepidermal electrical stimulation (PINT) and clinico-hematological parameters associated with OS were evaluated. Univariate linear regression analyses revealed age, BMI, HbA1c, the OS biomarker urine 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), systolic blood pressure, and decreased Achilles tendon reflex on the PINT scores. Adjustments for age, gender, and multiple clinical measures confirmed a positive correlation between PINT scores and urine 8-OHdG (β = 0.09, p < 0.01). Urine 8-OHdG correlated positively with higher HbA1c levels and age in the normoglycemic population. Unlike in the normoglycemic population, both inflammation and OS were correlated with elevated PINT scores in IFG subjects. OS may be a major contributing factor to elevated PINT scores in a healthy Japanese population.

Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein is a distinctive biomarker of abnormal pain threshold in the general Japanese population

INTRODUCTION

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is an early manifestation in diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN); however, the mechanisms are not fully understood. In diabetes, SFN is presumed to be common in individuals with overt DPN, enhancing activation of polyol pathway, oxidative stress, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and inflammation. We explored the relationship between clinicohematological factors related to DPN and pain sensation in the Japanese population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a population-based study, recruiting 1030 individuals (average age 54.4±0.5 years), in 2017, to participate in our Iwaki project. After initial screening by fasting blood glucose and glycohemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measurements, the subjects were categorized into control (n=894), type 2 diabetes (n=81), and impaired fasting glucose (n=55) groups. Clinical data were gathered, and relationships between pain threshold from intraepidermal electrical stimulation (PINT) and DPN were examined by analysis of variance, post hoc test, and χ² tests to study correlations among and between groups of the clinical data and DPN.

RESULTS

Univariate linear regression analyses showed significant correlations between PINT and serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) level (ß=0.1025, p=0.001). Adjustments for the clinical measurements confirmed a positive correlation (ß=0.070, p=0.034). Logistic regression analysis revealed high LBP value (>6.7 mg/dL) as a significant risk factor toward abnormal PINT (≥0.35 mA). LBP significantly correlated with the high-sensitivity C reactive protein, inflammation marker, elevated similarly in both pre-diabetic and overt-diabetic groups, compared with controls, but it did not correlate with a decreased Achilles tendon reflex. In contrast, urine 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, oxidative stress marker, and pentosidine, AGEs, markedly increased in individuals with type 2 diabetes with high HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with high LBP exhibited an elevated PINT in the Japanese population. Low level of inflammation evoked by metabolic endotoxemia is possibly implicated in the pathophysiology of SFN from pre-diabetic stage.

Association between serum β-carotene-to-retinol ratio and severity of hepatic steatosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Japan: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Retinol and β-carotene have been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, clinical studies are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum the ratio of β-carotene to retinol (SC/SR) and hepatic steatosis in NAFLD diagnosed by ultrasonography.

METHODS

The participants were 606 Japanese adults who were enrolled in a health survey. Clinical profile, dietary nutrition intake, blood biochemistry, serum retinol, and carotenoids were analyzed. NAFLD was defined as fatty liver on ultrasonography in the absence of other causes of steatosis.

RESULTS

Women had higher daily intake of α- and β-carotene, although there were no differences in daily retinol and carotenoid intake between participants with or without NAFLD in both men and women. Women had a higher SC/SR ratio than men regardless of the presence or absence of NAFLD, and the SC/SR ratio in women decreased with exacerbation of hepatic steatosis, whereas the SC/SR ratio in men did not change despite exacerbation of hepatic steatosis. After adjusting for confounding factors, the likelihood of NAFLD among participants in the highest quartile of SC/SR ratio decreased by two-thirds compared with participants in the lowest quartile (adjusted odds ratio, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.21-1.92; P = 0.041). The SC/SR ratio was positively correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, and negatively correlated with serum triacylglycerol level.

CONCLUSIONS

The SC/SR ratio was lower in NAFLD with sex differences, and was associated with the severity of hepatic steatosis and lipid profile. Future studies are needed to expand on these findings.

Effects of Lead, Mercury, and Cadmium Co-exposure on Children's Pulmonary Function

Accumulating evidence has shown that toxic metals exposure can have adverse effects on children, but the effects of blood Pb, Hg, and Cd co-exposure on pulmonary function in children remains to be clarified. This cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted in Wuxi City, China. A total of 221 healthy children free from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were recruited. The blood samples were collected while blood Pb, Hg, and Cd levels were determined. The forced vital capacity volume (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the 1 s (FEV1) were measured. The associations between metals concentration and pulmonary function were analyzed by multiple linear regression models. The geometric means of the blood Pb, Hg, and Cd levels in our study were 37.27 μg/L, 1.41 μg/L, and 0.28 μg/L, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, maternal education, annual family income, fish consumption, and second-hand smoking exposure, only the blood Pb levels were significantly negatively associated with the pulmonary function. In addition, a significantly positive interaction between blood Pb and blood Cd on pulmonary function were also detected. Although causal relationship cannot be confirmed in this study, at least higher levels of Pb in blood are associated with decreased pulmonary parameters in children.

Association between breath methane concentration and visceral fat area: a population-based cross-sectional study

High visceral fat area (VFA) is a stronger predictor of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality, compared with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). Recent reports demonstrate that obesity is related to breath gas, which is produced by the intestinal microflora. However, these studies define obesity using BMI, not VFA. In this population-based cross-sectional study, we investigated the relationship between breath gases (methane and hydrogen) and both VFA and BMI. A total of 1033 participants (62% women; age [mean ± standard deviation] 54.4 ± 14.9 years) in the 2015 Iwaki Health Promotion Project in Japan were enrolled in the study. Breath samples were collected using a breath bag and analyzed by gas chromatography. VFA was measured using a visceral fat meter. The proportion of methanogenic bacteria to total intestinal microbiota was measured by polymerase chain reaction and 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. Our analysis revealed a significant association between high VFA and low breath methane, even after adjusting for confounding factors (B = -0.024 and P = 0.004). To identify the association between breath methane and VFA in participants with methane-producing bacteria in their intestinal microflora, participants were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of methanogenic bacteria in their stool. The Methanogen + group was further divided into two subgroups with breath methane higher (Methane-UP) or lower (Methane-LO) than the median breath methane concentration. VFA was significantly lower in the Methane-UP group than in the Methane-LO group. In participants with methanogenic bacteria, breath methane concentration might be an independent biomarker of visceral fat accumulation.

Lower circulating zinc and selenium levels are associated with an increased risk of asthma: evidence from a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Previous studies evaluating the associations of circulating Zn and Se levels with asthma have produced inconsistent results. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to summarize and quantitatively synthesize the evidence from observational research.

DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

SETTING

We searched PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases up to May 2019 for relevant available articles. Random-effects model was adopted to estimate the pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95 % CI. Meta-regression analysis and 'leave-one-out' sensitivity analysis were used to assess heterogeneity.

PARTICIPANTS

The meta-analysis focused on general populations.

RESULTS

A total of twenty-six studies for Zn and forty studies for Se were included in the meta-analysis. The overall analyses identified that asthma patients had lower Zn (SMD = -0·40; 95 % CI -0·77, -0·03; I2 = 94·1 %) and Se (SMD = -0·32; 95 % CI -0·48, -0·17; I2 = 90·9 %) levels in serum or plasma compared with healthy controls. After removing the studies that contributed to the heterogeneity, the pooled SMD were -0·26 (95 % CI -0·40, -0·13; I2 = 37·42 %) for Zn and -0·06 (95 % CI -0·13, 0·02; I2 = 43·54 %) for Se.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower circulating Zn and Se levels might be associated with an increased risk of asthma.

Blautia genus associated with visceral fat accumulation in adults 20-76 years of age

The gut microbiota is reported to be related to obesity, and visceral fat is reported to be strongly associated with cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. However, the association between the gut microbiota and obesity has mainly been studied using body mass index (BMI) as a proxy for obesity. We investigated the relationship of both visceral fat and BMI with the gut microbiota stratified by sex in a population-based cross-sectional study of Japanese men and women 20-76 years of age (n = 1001). Women with a higher visceral fat area (VFA) harboured a higher relative abundance of the Firmicutes phylum (P for trend <0.001) and a lower relative abundance of the Bacteroidetes phylum (P for trend 0.030), whereas men with higher VFA harboured a lower relative abundance of the Firmicutes phylum (P for trend 0.076) and a higher relative abundance of the Bacteroidetes phylum (P for trend 0.013). Similar results were obtained using BMI as an index, but the differences were not significant in men. At the genus level, Blautia was the only gut microbe significantly and inversely associated with VFA regardless of sex. In conclusion, at the genus level we found that Blautia was the only gut microbe significantly and inversely associated with VFA, regardless of sex.

Evaluation of Some Trace Elements and Vitamins in Major Depressive Disorder Patients: a Case-Control Study

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental disorder worldwide; however, little is known about its etiology. It is well known that levels of certain trace elements are associated with the pathogenesis of some diseases. Accordingly, this study aims to evaluate the effect of trace elements and vitamins in the etiology of MDD. In this case-control study, sixty men patients with MDD and sixty, age and gender matched, control subjects were examined. Serum levels of Cu, Zn, Ni, Cr, Mn, Mg, and Al were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry as well as serum levels of vitamins E and A were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. The results revealed that there were significantly higher levels (p < 0.001) of Cu, Cr, and Al in patients sera compared with control. While there were significantly lower levels (p < 0.001) of Zn, Ni, Mn, Mg, vitamin E, and vitamin A in MDD patients as compared with control. In addition, high Cu/Zn ratio (p < 0.05) was observed with the depressive disorder patients. The present study highlights some main indications: a significant relationship between the disturbances of element levels and vitamins (E and A) with MDD. Cu and Zn seemed to have a crucial role in understanding the pathogenesis of depressive disorders, where Cu/Zn ratio could have an important role in the diagnosis and monitoring of MDD. Moreover, the results suggest that the reduction in the antioxidant vitamin E leads to increased risk of MDD. Finally, more studies on using trace element supplementation would be suggested to clarify their effect, in order to improve the therapy of MDD.

Normal High HbA1c a Risk Factor for Abnormal Pain Threshold in the Japanese Population

Purpose: Small fiber dysfunction is common in subjects with diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN). It is unsettled, however, whether marginal glucose intolerance is implicated in the onset and progression of small fiber dysfunction. Herein, we explored the relationship between glycated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c) and pain sensation in the Japanese population. Methods: A population-based study of 894 individuals (352 men, 542 women; average age 53.8 ± 0.5 years) and 55 subjects with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in the 2017 Iwaki project were enrolled in this study. Individuals with diabetes were excluded. Relationships between pain threshold for intraepidermal electrical stimulation (P-IES) and parameters associated with metabolic syndrome were examined. Results: P-IES was elevated with increasing of age in women but not in men. Average P-IES (mA) was increased in IFG subjects (n = 55, 0.20 ± 0.03) compared with normoglycemic/non-IFG individuals (n = 894, 0.15 ± 0.11) (p < 0.01). It was comparable between IFG and a group of normal high HbA1c (5.9-6.4%). Univariate linear regression analyses showed no influence of sex, triglyceride, or cholesterol on the value of P-IES. In contrast, there were significant correlations between P-IES and serum HbA1c level (ß = 0.120, p < 0.001) Adjustments for the multiple clinical measurements confirmed positive correlation of P-IES with HbA1c (ß = 0.077, p = 0.046). Conclusion: Individuals with normal high HbA1c exhibited an elevated P-IES in a healthy Japanese population which may be useful for the screening of subclinical DPN.

Association between trace elements levels and asthma susceptibility

BACKGROUND

It is well-documented that the dysregulation of trace elements may be involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. However, the precise changes of trace elements levels in asthma cases remain elusive. We established whether trace elements levels were associated with asthma susceptibility by pooling case-control studies.

METHODS

34 studies were included. We extracted the standard mean differences (SMDs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A pooled-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

No marked difference (95% CI: -1.437-0.218, p = 0.149) of Se level between asthma and controls. Significant difference (95% CI: 0.112-1.032, p = 0.015; 95% CI: 0.376-1.331, p < 10^-4) of Cu level between asthma and controls was noted among overall populations and Asians. No marked difference of Zn level between asthma and controls was observed among overall populations, Asians, Caucasians and Africans. Significant difference (95% CI: -0.567 to -0.238, p < 10^-4) of Mg level between asthma and controls was noted among Asians. Marked difference (95% CI: 0.258-2.864, p = 0.019; 95% CI: 0.270-3.282, p = 0.021) of Fe level between asthma and controls was noted among overall populations and Asians. Age had no impact on the pooled SMDs of Se, Cu, Zn, Mg and Fe between asthma and controls. Sensitivity analyses did not change the overall results. No publication bias was noted for overall populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Alterations of Cu, Mg and Fe levels may be a biomarker of asthma risk among specific populations. Further studies should be performed to clarify the strength of these elements in asthma.

The immunomodulatory role of zinc in asthmatic patients

BACKGROUND

Zinc deficiency may play an important role in the development of atopic asthma.

THE AIM OF THE WORK

To assess serum zinc levels in adult atopic, non-atopic asthmatic patients, and in healthy controls and to investigate its modulatory effect on production of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in vitro.

METHODS

Sixty asthmatics and 30 apparently healthy volunteers were included in this study. All patients were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, pulmonary function tests, skin prick test (SPT), serum zinc assessment by a colorimetric method as well as serum total IgE measurement by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). PBMCs were activated in vitro in the presence and absence of zinc, and then cell culture supernatants were analyzed for IFN-γ and IL-10 by ELISA.

RESULTS

Serum zinc levels were significantly lower in atopic asthmatics than non-atopic asthmatics and healthy controls. In atopic asthmatics, highly significant correlations were found between zinc levels and total Ig E levels as well as FEV1. In culture, zinc triggers IFN-γ and inhibits IL-10 production by PBMCs, in atopic asthmatics. In non atopic asthmatics and healthy controls, IFN-γ and IL-10 were slightly affected by zinc supplementation in culture.

CONCLUSION

Serum zinc levels affect asthma phenotypes. Atopic asthmatics might benefit from zinc supplements.

Serum Zinc Level in Asthmatic and Non-Asthmatic School Children

Asthma is one of the most common chronic disorders among children. Zinc (Zn) is an essential dietary antioxidant and may have a special role in assisting the airways of asthmatic subjects. The primary objective of this study was to measure serum Zn levels among asthmatic school children and to compare this to the serum Zn level in non-asthmatic children. The secondary objective was to investigate the relationship between Zn levels and the degree of asthma control. A cross-sectional study following forty asthmatic children and forty matched non-asthmatic children of both genders was conducted. Weight, height, body mass index (BMI), BMI Z-scores, serum Zn, hemoglobin, total protein, and albumin concentrations were measured in both groups. Serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and dosage of inhaled steroids were measured in asthmatic school children. The results show the mean Zn level among asthmatic children was 12.78 ± 1.8 μmol/L. Hypozincemia was detected in four asthmatic children. Asthma and control groups were matched in age, gender, and BMI Z score (p > 0.05). No significant difference was observed in Zn levels, hemoglobin, albumin, and total protein between both groups (p > 0.05). Among asthmatics, Zn levels were not significantly associated with the degree of asthma control (well controlled, mean Zn = 12.9 ± 1.5, partially controlled, mean Zn = 11.9 ± 1.6, and uncontrolled, mean Zn = 3.62 ± 2.2) (p = 0.053). The Zn level was not correlated with the FEV1 Z score. There was no significant association between Zn level and the dosage of inhaled steroids or IgE concentrations (p > 0.05). The findings show that Zn may not play a major role in the degree of asthma control. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results.

Elemental Analysis of Whole and Protein Separated Blood Serum of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Sjögren's Syndrome

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS) are systemic autoimmune diseases with complex symptoms and pathogenesis that are still not completely understood. Several studies showed that the trace element homeostasis and also the levels of antioxidant plasma proteins are changed in autoimmune disorders; however, these results are controversial. In this study, the potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) concentrations of the serum and proteins-immunoglobulin G (IgG), transferrin (Trf), albumin (Alb), and ceruloplasmin (Cp)-separated from serum samples by affinity chromatography were determined in patients with SLE and SS. Ca and K levels were found to be decreased in the case of both disorders compared to the control group, and the competitive antagonism of Cu and Zn was also observed: elevated Cu concentration together with a lower Zn concentration was measured in the sera of patients with autoimmune diseases. After fractionation, the trace element concentration of protein containing fractions altered to that of the control group. In case of the autoimmune disorders, the highest Cu concentration was determined in the Alb-containing protein fractions while the Zn level decreased in the Alb and increased in the Cp as well as in the IgG- and Trf-containing fractions compared to the healthy samples. Changes have also been found in the level and distribution of K and Ca.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidants in severe asthma: A Prospective Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Bronchial airway inflammation is the hallmark of asthma, which may be driven by an imbalance between oxidative stress and antioxidant defenses. Antioxidants deficiency may play a role, but this has remained unconfirmed.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the oxidative stress burden and antioxidants defenses in patients with increasing asthma severity.

METHODS

This prospective case-control study compared fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), exhaled breath condensate nitrite/nitrate (EBC-NOx), spirometry, and serum vitamins and trace elements among patients with and without asthma.

RESULTS

Sixty participants were recruited (30 with severe asthma number; 23 women [76.7%]; mean age, 41.4 years; mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV₁], 2.2 L [72.2% predicted]; mean inhaled corticosteroid dosage, 2,540 μg/d; 18/30 [60%] receiving maintenance oral corticosteroids; 15 with mild asthma; all corticosteroids naïve; 9 women [60%]; mean age, 34.6 years; mean FEV₁, 3.48 L [100.5% predicted]; 15 healthy controls; 12 women [80%]; mean age, 37.6 years; and mean FEV₁, 3.53 L [111.7% predicted]). The mean FeNO levels increased significantly with increasing asthma severity (P = .01), but the EBC-NOx levels did not change significantly (P = .90). Paradoxically, vitamin A and vitamin E increased with increased disease severity, with vitamin E levels increasing significantly (P = .07 and P < .001, respectively). There was no significant difference between groups in the levels of copper (P = .37), zinc (P = .97), or selenium (P = .90).

CONCLUSION

FeNO but not EBC-NOx is increased significantly with asthma severity with no evidence of vitamins or trace elements deficiency in severe asthma. Impaired oxidative stress defenses in severe asthma may be driven by factors other than vitamins or trace elements deficiency.

Association between Higher Serum Cortisol Levels and Decreased Insulin Secretion in a General Population

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are well known to induce insulin resistance. However, the effect of GCs on insulin secretion has not been well characterized under physiological conditions in human. We here evaluated the effect of GCs on insulin secretion/ß-cell function precisely in a physiological condition. A population-based study of 1,071 Japanese individuals enrolled in the 2014 Iwaki study (390 men, 681 women; aged 54.1 ± 15.1 years), those excluded individuals taking medication for diabetes or steroid treatment, were enrolled in the present study. Association between serum cortisol levels and insulin resistance/secretion assessed by homeostasis model assessment using fasting blood glucose and insulin levels (HOMA-R and HOMA-ß, respectively) were examined. Univariate linear regression analyses showed correlation of serum cortisol levels with HOMA-ß (ß = -0.134, p <0.001) but not with HOMA-R (ß = 0.042, p = 0.172). Adjustments for age, gender, and the multiple clinical characteristics correlated with HOMA indices showed similar results (HOMA-ß: ß = -0.062, p = 0.025; HOMA-R: ß = -0.023, p = 0.394). The correlation between serum cortisol levels and HOMA-ß remained significant after adjustment for HOMA- R (ß = -0.057, p = 0.034). When subjects were tertiled based on serum cortisol levels, the highest tertile was at greater risk of decreased insulin secretion (defined as lower one third of HOMA-ß (≤70)) than the lowest tertile, after adjustment for multiple factors including HOMA- R (odds ratio 1.26, 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.54). In conclusion, higher serum cortisol levels are significantly associated with decreased insulin secretion in the physiological cortisol range in a Japanese population.

The role of cord blood BDNF in infant cognitive impairment induced by low-level prenatal manganese exposure: LW birth cohort, China

This study aimed to examine the potential association between low-level prenatal manganese (Mn) exposure and 1-year-old children's neurodevelopment quotient (DQ) by using the Gesell Developmental Inventory (GDI) (motor, adaptive, language, and social domains) and explored the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Mn-induced cognitive impairments. A total of 377 mothers were recruited from a prospective birth cohort in rural northern China. Cord serum concentrations of Mn and BDNF were measured and children's DQ was evaluated. The median serum Mn concentration was 3.4 μg/L. After adjusting for confounding factors, Mn level was significantly associated with gross motor scores (β = -6.0, 95% CI: -11.8 to -0.2, p < 0.05) and personal-social scores (β = -4.2, 95% CI: -8.4 to 0.1, p < 0.05). BDNF level was positively correlated with personal-social score (β = 0.7, 95% CI: 0-1.4, p < 0.05). A significant correlation was found between Mn and BDNF (r = -0.13, 95% CI: -0.23 to -0.03, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the interaction between cord serum Mn and BDNF was significant (p < 0.001). In conclusion, elevated low-level prenatal Mn exposure impaired infant's neurodevelopment, and BDNF plays an important role in cognitive impairment, especially in the personal-social ability.

Zinc sulfate improved the unbalanced T cell profiles in Der p-allergic asthma: An ex vivo study

INTRODUCTION

In the pathogenesis of asthma, an imbalance between helper T (Th) 1/Th2 and Th17/Treg cells is believed to play a key role in asthmatic inflammatory responses. Some studies indicated that zinc deficiency increases inflammatory factor production and worsens asthma. However, the effects of zinc on T cell profiles to reduce inflammatory response remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the beneficial effects of zinc on isolated cell populations and cytokine levels from patients with asthma.

METHODS

Thirty-six individuals Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p)-allergic and 31 healthy subjects were enrolled in the study, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected. Harvested PBMCs were stimulated with recombinant Der p antigen in the presence or absence of zinc sulfate (25 μM or 50 μM) for 48 h. Cell surface markers and intracellular cytokine levels were examined by flow cytometry. The pro-inflammatory factors in plasma and culture supernatants were measured by commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Zinc sulfate dramatically reduced the proportions of Th2 and Th17 cells, but increased that of Th1 and Treg cells. Zinc sulfate also markedly reduced the levels of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17, but increased the levels of IFN-γ.

CONCLUSIONS

Zinc ameliorates the imbalance in T cell profiles and could be a potential adjuvant therapy for Der p-induced allergic hypersensitivity.

Zinc enhances the number of regulatory T cells in allergen-stimulated cells from atopic subjects

PURPOSE

The trace element zinc is essential for immune function and its regulation. Since zinc deficiency and allergic hyperresponsive reactions are often accompanied, the influence of zinc on allergen-induced cell growth, CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cell numbers and cytokine expression during allergic immune reactions was investigated.

METHODS

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from non-atopic and atopic subjects were treated with timothy grass allergen pre-incubated with or without zinc. Proliferation was determined by analyzing the incorporation of ³H-thymidine. Intracellular zinc and Foxp3 levels and cell surface antigens were measured by FACS, cytokine expression by ELISA and real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Incubation with 50 μM zinc sulfate (Zn50) enhances cytosolic zinc concentrations in CD3+ T cells. The data also reveal that the combination of Zn50 plus allergen significantly reduces PBMC proliferation of atopic subjects. Additionally, Zn50 plus allergen enhances Th1 cytokine responses shown by increased interferon (IFN)-γ/interleukin (IL)-10 ratios as well as enhanced tumor necrosis factor-α release. In response to allergen, zinc increases Treg cells and upregulates the mRNA expression of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 in atopic subjects. Interestingly, Zn50 alone leads to an increase of CD4+CD25high(hi)+ cells in atopic and non-atopic subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Zinc may regulate unwanted hyperresponsive immune reactions by suppressing proliferation through a significant shift from IL-10 to the Th1 cytokine IFN-γ, and enhanced regulatory T cell numbers. Therefore, zinc supplementation may be a promising tool for the therapy of allergies, without negatively affecting the immune system.

Prenatal exposure to manganese at environment relevant level and neonatal neurobehavioral development

BACKGROUND

Effects of prenatal Manganese (Mn) exposure at an environmental relevant level on neonatal neurodevelopment remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

In the multi-center study, we assessed the impact of low level prenatal Mn exposure on neonatal behavioral neurological assessments (NBNA), and explore a threshold umbilical cord blood Mn on neonatal neurological development.

METHODS

We investigated 933 mother-newborn pairs in Shanghai, China, from 2008 through 2009. Umbilical cord serum concentrations of Mn were measured and NBNA tests were conducted. The NBNA contains five clusters: behavior, active tone, passive tone, primary reflexes and general assessment with a maximal total score of 40. The score<37 is defined as low.

RESULTS

The median serum Mn concentration was 4.0 μg/L. Of the 933 infants, 44 (4.7%) had low NBNA. After adjusting for potential confounders, a high level of Mn (≥ 75th percentile ) was associated with a lower NBNA score (adjusted ß=-1.1, 95% CI: -1.4-0.7, p<0.01) and a higher risk of low NBNA (adjusted OR=9.4, 95% CI: 3.4-25.7, p<0.01). A nonlinear relationship was observed between cord serum Mn and NBNA after adjusting for potential confounders. NBNA score decreased with increasing Mn levels after 5.0 μg/L(LgMn ≥ 0.7). The cord serum Mn ≥ 5.0 μg/L had adverse effects on behavior, active tone and general reactions of clusters (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

High prenatal Mn exposure even at an environmental relevant level, is associated with poor fetal neurobehavioral development in a nonlinear pattern. A threshold cord serum Mn of 5.0 μg/L existed for lower neonatal behavioral neurological assessments.

The prevalence of wheezing and its association with serum zinc concentration in children and adolescents in Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To assess the influence of zinc serum status on the prevalence of wheezing in a sample of children and adolescents in Northeastern Brazil.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES

This is a cross-sectional study which included 592 students of 6-12 years old, from the public elementary schools of São Francisco do Conde, Bahia, Northeastern Brazil. Report of wheezing in the past 12 months was collected using a questionnaire of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Program (ISAAC) phase III, adapted to Portuguese. The determination of serum Zn levels was performed using a flame atomic absorption spectrometer. Data on anthropometric status, level of physical activity, pubertal development and socioeconomic information, for each participant were obtained. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the associations of interest.

RESULTS

Of the students, 8.6% (95% CI 6.30-10.9) reported having wheezing. The mean (SD) serum zinc level was 114 (22.9 μg/dL). The results of the multiple logistic regression analysis showed, after adjustments, positive and significant association between low serum zinc levels and wheezing. Students categorized as being below the median for serum Zn concentration presented an almost 1.9-fold increase in the wheezing prevalence ratio (OR=1.9; 95% CI 1.03-3.53).

CONCLUSION

The main findings of this study suggest that the level of zinc may influence the risk of wheezing in late childhood on the study population.

Selenium protects neonates against neurotoxicity from prenatal exposure to manganese

Manganese (Mn) exposure can affect brain development. Whether Selenium (Se) can protect neonates against neurotoxicity from Mn exposure remains unclear. We investigated this issue in 933 mother-newborn pairs in Shanghai, China, from 2008 through 2009. Umbilical cord serum concentrations of Mn and Se were measured and Neonatal Behavioral Neurological Assessment (NBNA) tests were conducted. The scores <37 were defined as the low NBNA. The median concentrations of cord serum Mn and Se were 4.0 µg/L and 63.1 µg/L, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, the interaction between Se and Mn was observed. Cord blood Mn levels had different effects on NBNA scores stratified by different cord blood Se levels. With Se Collapse

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MESH Headings

• Analysis of Variance
• Female
• Humans
• Infant, Newborn
• Male
• Manganese/toxicity
• Maternal Exposure/adverse effects
• Neuroprotective Agents/pharmacology
• Pregnancy
• Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/prevention & control
• Selenium/pharmacology

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Affiliation(s)

Xin Yang MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
YiXiao Bao Department of Pediatrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
HuanHuan Fu MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
LuanLuan Li MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
TianHong Ren MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
XiaoDan Yu MOE-Shanghai Key Lab of Children’s Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China

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Serum level of zinc in asthmatic patients: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Hypozincemia could lead to a variety of defects in growth and the immune system, while it seems to be associated with increased rate of asthmatic attacks in children.

METHODS

This study was performed to assess the serum zinc level in 100 paediatric asthmatic patients in comparison with a control group.

RESULTS

Mean serum level of zinc in the asthmatic patients was 70.5±22.6 μg/dL, which was significantly lower than 80.9±16.9 μg/dL in the control group (p<0.001). Forty-two asthmatic patients (42%) had hypozincemia, while this rate was 12% in healthy children (p<0.001). There was a significant association between the zinc level and severity of asthma (p<0.001). However, no significant association was detected between the serum level of zinc and other factors, including control and treatment of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

As for high rate of hypozincemia in the asthmatic children, evaluation of serum zinc level in asthmatic children could be suggested, while zinc substitution in the diet of those with hypozincemia could be recommended.

Zinc suppressed the airway inflammation in asthmatic rats: effects of zinc on generation of eotaxin, MCP-1, IL-8, IL-4, and IFN-γ

Airway epithelium is rich in labile zinc (Zn), which may have an important protective role in the airway epithelium. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of Zn on the airway inflammation and the generation of eotaxin, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in rat models of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic airway inflammation. For this purpose, animal model of asthma was established by OVA challenge and zinc-deficient and zinc-supplemented diets were given. Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: zinc-deficient diet with OVA treatment group, zinc-supplemented diet with OVA treatment group, zinc-normal diet with OVA treatment group, and zinc-normal diet with saline treatment group. Twenty-four hours after asthma was induced, lung histomorphological changes, cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), contents of eotaxin, MCP-1, and IL-8 in BALF, and the expression of IFN-γ and IL-4 mRNAs were observed. Compared with the group of zinc-normal diet with OVA challenge rats, the group of zinc-deficient rats had higher numbers of eosinophils, neutrophils, and monocytes in BALF, as well as higher contents of eotaxin and MCP-1 in BALF and lower expression of lung IFN-γ mRNA. Conversely, Zn supplementation would decrease the numbers of eosinophils, neutrophils, and monocytes in BALF; suppress eotaxin and MCP-1 protein secretion; and increase lung IFN-γ mRNA expression. No significant difference was observed in IL-8 and IL-4 among OVA-challenged rats with different zinc diets. These studies suggested that Zn may be an important anti-inflammatory mediator of airway inflammation.

Low concentrations of selenium and zinc in nails are associated with childhood asthma

The purpose of this study was to investigate possible associations between Zn, Se, Cu, Mn, and Co concentrations in nails and asthma in a young population from a Southern Brazil city. Additionally, correlations between these chemical elements among asthmatic and non-asthmatic children were evaluated. Before nail collection (n = 165), children were asked to complete the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. The concentrations of trace elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between element concentrations in nails and the respiratory outcome. To evaluate correlations between the elements, we used the Spearman correlation test. For all tests, the significance level was set at 95% (P ≤ 0.05). Children included in the highest quartile of nail Se and Zn concentration presented a fivefold decrease in the prevalence ratio of asthma while children in the lowest Se range presented an almost 2.5-fold increase in the asthma prevalence ratio. There were weak to strong correlations between Cu vs. Zn, Cu vs. Co, Cu vs. Se, Zn vs. Se, Zn vs. Mn, and Mn vs. Co in both asthmatic and non-asthmatic children. Interestingly, non-asthmatics also presented correlations between Co vs. Se and Zn. Taken together, our results clearly demonstrated an association between concentrations of selenium and zinc and childhood asthma and the usefulness of nail as a noninvasive matrix to detect minerals imbalance in asthma patients.