Role of Zinc-Dependent Enzymes in Zinc Deficiency and Inflammatory Responses in Ulcerative Colitis
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By
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Yuki Murakami
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Taiho Kambe
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Yu Kobayashi
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Aki Sakatani
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Katsuyoshi Ando
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Nobuhiro Ueno
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Kentaro Moriichi
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Mikihiro Fujiya
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July 17, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Role of Zinc-Dependent Enzymes in Zinc Deficiency and Inflammatory Responses in Ulcerative Colitis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Ulcerative Colitis |
| Key Mechanisms | Zinc deficiency affects immune function and mucosal inflammation; Zn-dependent enzymes modulate inflammatory cytokine responses. |
| Target Population | Patients with Ulcerative Colitis aged ≥ 12 years. |
| Care Setting | Prospective observational study in a clinical setting. |
Key Highlights
- Zinc deficiency affects approximately 40% of patients with Ulcerative Colitis.
- Malnutrition is observed in more than 60% of patients with Ulcerative Colitis.
- Zn supplementation may reduce inflammatory cytokine levels in Zn-deficient patients.
- Alkaline phosphatases (ALPs) and NT5E/CD73 are key Zn-dependent enzymes involved in inflammation.
- The interplay between Zn deficiency and mucosal cytokine responses is not fully understood.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis is based on clinical, endoscopic, and histological criteria.
Management
- Consider Zn supplementation for Zn-deficient patients with Ulcerative Colitis.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor serum Zn levels and inflammatory cytokine expression in patients.
Risks
- Zinc deficiency can lead to diarrhea, impaired immune function, and delayed wound healing.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with Ulcerative Colitis experiencing Zn deficiency.
Zn supplementation may improve mucosal inflammation and immune function.
Clinical Best Practices
- Assess serum Zn levels in patients with Ulcerative Colitis.
- Evaluate the expression of Zn-dependent enzymes in relation to disease severity.
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