Review paper
The role of selected microelements: selenium, zinc, chromium and iron in immune system
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Publication date: 2011-12-24
Cent Eur J Immunol 2011;36(4):303-307
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ABSTRACT
The immune response is the process of recognition of potentially harmful agents by specialized cells of the immune system. It is expressed as cellular and humoral immunity. A number of nutrients have the ability to modulate immune response through the production of antibodies or cytokines (e.g. zinc, selenium, chromium). Moreover the elements are required for immune cells proliferation or activation (e.g. iron). The elements are also required for functioning of enzymes involved in antioxidant system (e.g. selenium) of the immune cells. It has been shown, that nutrient supplementation may enhance but may also suppress immune function.