Skip to main content
ARS Home » Northeast Area » Ithaca, New York » Robert W. Holley Center for Agriculture & Health » Plant, Soil and Nutrition Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #358182
Title: The linoleic acid: dihomo-y-linolenic acid ratio (LA:DGLA)—an emerging biomarker of Zn status

Author
item KNEZ, M. - Flinders University
item STANGOULIS, J. - Flinders University
item GLIBETIC, M. - University Of Belgrade
item Tako, Elad

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/23/2018
Publication Date: 6/1/2018
Citation: Knez, M., Stangoulis, J., Glibetic, M., Tako, E. 2018. The linoleic acid: dihomo-y-linolenic acid ratio (LA:DGLA)—an emerging biomarker of Zn status. In: Tako, E. Dietary Zn and Human Health. Basel, Switzerland: MDPI Books. p. 1-12.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Zinc (ZN) is an essential micronutrient that contributes to the proper functioning of over 300 enzymes and multiple biochemical and structural processes in the body. Zinc functions in the regulation of an extensive variety of genes, such as those involved in nucleic acid metabolism, cell signaling, apoptosis, and plays an integral role in immune system functioning. Even a mild Zn deficiency can profoundly affect growth and development, as well as impede immune differentiation and maturation. Zinc is widely distributed in foods, however, it was demonstrated that dietary constituents, such as phytate, polyphenols, and the intestinal microbiome, affect its dietary bioavailability and intestinal absorption. Regulation of zinc metabolism is achieved through a balance of absorption and excretion and involves adaptive mechanisms. The aim of this book is to explore dietary approaches that aim to improve ZN bioavailability and absorption, biomarkers of status, and the effect of Zn status on the intestinal microbiome.