Zinc citrate
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Zinc Citrate: Absorption, Applications, and Benefits
Zinc Citrate Absorption Efficiency
Zinc Citrate vs. Other Zinc Supplements
Zinc citrate is a zinc supplement with high absorption efficiency. Research comparing zinc citrate with zinc gluconate and zinc oxide found that zinc citrate has a comparable absorption rate to zinc gluconate and significantly higher absorption than zinc oxide. In a study involving 15 healthy adults, the median fractional absorption of zinc from zinc citrate was 61.3%, similar to zinc gluconate at 60.9%, but much higher than zinc oxide at 49.9%. This suggests that zinc citrate is an effective alternative for preventing zinc deficiency and treating conditions like diarrhea.
Structural and Chemical Properties
Crystal Structure of Zinc Citrate
The crystal structure of zinc citrate reveals that zinc ions are octahedrally coordinated to two equivalent citrates via a central hydroxyl, central carboxyl, and one terminal carboxyl from each citrate. This structure is distinct from other divalent cation triply ionized citrate complexes, which are typically polymeric. The unique structure of zinc citrate may influence its solubility and absorption properties.
Synthesis and Conversion
Zinc citrate can be synthesized into amorphous spheres and converted into crystalline ZnO nanostructures under specific conditions. The conversion process involves heating in aqueous solutions, which leads to the nucleation and growth of ZnO on the surfaces of the amorphous zinc citrate spheres. The morphology of the resulting ZnO nanostructures can be controlled by varying the solution composition, concentration of citrate anions, and pH.
Health and Therapeutic Applications
Immune System Modulation
Zinc plays a crucial role in immune system regulation. Studies have shown that zinc and citrate can modulate T cell activation and differentiation. Zinc increases regulatory T cells, while citrate reduces them. Both zinc and citrate independently regulate IFNγ expression, which is crucial for immune response. This interaction may explain the immunosuppressive effects observed in blood products anticoagulated by citrate and suggests that high citrate consumption could lead to immunosuppressive effects.
Oral Health Benefits
Zinc citrate, often combined with Triclosan, has been shown to inhibit plaque accumulation and reduce gingivitis. Clinical studies demonstrated that a dentifrice containing zinc citrate and Triclosan significantly inhibited plaque growth and reduced gingival bleeding more effectively than either agent alone. This combination employs multiple antimicrobial actions, making it a potent agent for maintaining oral health .
Hepatoprotective Effects
Zinc citrate, when incorporated with whey protein nanoparticles, has shown potential in alleviating oxidative stress and modulating gene expression in the liver. In a study with rats treated with CCl4, zinc citrate coated with whey protein nanoparticles counteracted biochemical disturbances and histological changes, suggesting a protective effect against liver damage.
Bone Regeneration
Zinc citrate incorporated into hydroxyapatite nanoparticles has shown promise in bone regeneration. These nanoparticles, which mimic the hydroxyapatite in immature bone tissue, enhance osteogenesis and cytocompatibility. Studies indicate that the presence of zinc and citrate in hydroxyapatite nanoparticles significantly induces osteogenic commitment and functionality in bone marrow-derived stromal cells, making them a potential material for bone grafts .
Treatment of HPV Infections
A pilot study investigated the use of a zinc-citrate compound (CIZAR®) for treating high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infections. The study found that intra-vaginal infusion of zinc citrate significantly reduced the persistence of HR-HPV infection compared to a control group, suggesting a potential therapeutic application for zinc citrate in managing HPV infections.
Conclusion
Zinc citrate is a versatile compound with high absorption efficiency and multiple health benefits. Its applications range from improving immune function and oral health to protecting the liver and aiding in bone regeneration. Additionally, zinc citrate shows promise in treating HR-HPV infections. These diverse benefits make zinc citrate a valuable supplement and therapeutic agent.
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