Stimulation of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells by Zinc and Related Cations

摘要: Zinc is an important trace element for immune function. Here, we show that zinc addition in a serum- and lipopolysaccharide-free cell culture system leads to significantly enhanced levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta) tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) expression the corresponding mRNA human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Structurally related divalent cations like cobalt, nickel, mercury also partially increase monokine secretion but much lower thus insignificant extent. They fail induce TNF-alpha after 3 h culture. Therefore, induction zinc-specific effect influenced by physicochemical properties ion. Confirmation unique significance function provides better understanding mechanisms specific zinc-mediated modulation.