Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium fungi, commonly found in cereals like maize, wheat, barley, and other crops. ZEN is known for its estrogenic activity because it structurally resembles estrogen and can mimic its effects in animals and humans. This mycotoxin can enter the food chain through contaminated grain-based products, and humans can be exposed to it by consuming contaminated food or animal products.

Zearalenone (ZEN) is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Fusarium fungi, commonly found in cereals like maize, wheat, barley, and other crops. ZEN is known for its estrogenic activity because it structurally resembles estrogen and can mimic its effects in animals and humans. This mycotoxin can enter the food chain through contaminated grain-based products, and humans can be exposed to it by consuming contaminated food or animal products.

Zinc is a primary nutrient that we need to thrive. It’s used in a variety of functions through the body including wound healing and creation of DNA. In North America, zinc deficiencies are rare and an unusually high level of zinc in the blood usually indicates iron deficiency or lead poisoning.

The marker Zinc on a Comprehensive Urine Element Profile panel from Genova Diagnostics is used to assess the amount of zinc that is being excreted in an individual's urine. Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays crucial roles in various bodily functions, including immune response, DNA synthesis, and protein production.

The primary role of zinc is to activate almost 200 enzymes with vital roles in cell regulation, immune function, acid/base balance, DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, eicosanoid production, and digestion. Zinc also is a component of insulin (energy metabolism), thymic hormones (immune function) and gustin (taste acuity).

Zinc is an essential trace element that serves as a co-factor for over 300 enzymes and plays a critical role in numerous biological functions. It is necessary for cell growth and division, DNA synthesis, wound healing, taste perception, immune and thyroid function, blood clotting, reproduction, tissue repair, and protection against oxidative stress. Zinc also contributes to important structural and regulatory processes in the body.

Adequate zinc intake helps reduce the absorption of toxic metals like lead and protects the kidneys from cadmium-induced damage. Zinc is absorbed more efficiently when the diet includes animal proteins such as eggs, beef, and cheese—these release amino acids that help keep zinc soluble and bioavailable. Conversely, phytates found in legumes and whole grains can bind zinc and inhibit its absorption. As a result, vegetarians and vegans—who typically consume higher levels of phytates and lower levels of animal protein—are at greater risk for zinc deficiency and may require higher levels of supplementation. Alcohol consumption can also impair zinc status by reducing absorption and increasing urinary losses.

A high level of zinc (Zn) in hair may be indicative of low Zn in cells, and functional Zn deficiency. Zn can be displaced from proteins such as intracellular metallothionein by other metals, particularly cadmium, lead, copper, and mercury (Toxicology of Metals, 1994), resulting in paradoxically elevated hair Zn. Zn may also be high in hair as a result of the use of Zn- containing anti-dandruff shampoo. Rough or dry, flaky skin is a symptom of Zn deficiency, so it is not uncommon for Zn deficient patients to use an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Zinc, a trace element found in nearly every cell of the human body, is an essential component measured in the Toxic and Essential Elements panel using a whole blood sample. This panel assesses the levels of various elements that are vital for health, as well as those that could be harmful in excess. Zinc's role in the body is multifaceted; it acts as a catalytic agent in over 300 enzymes, plays a critical role in protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. It is also crucial for proper immune system function and has a significant impact on the body's metabolic rate.

A high level of zinc (Zn) in hair may be indicative of low Zn in cells, and functional Zn deficiency. Zn can be displaced from proteins such as intracellular metallothionein by other metals, particularly cadmium, lead, copper, and mercury (Toxicology of Metals, 1994), resulting in paradoxically elevated hair Zn. Zn may also be high in hair as a result of the use of Zn- containing anti-dandruff shampoo. Rough or dry, flaky skin is a symptom of Zn deficiency, so it is not uncommon for Zn deficient patients to use an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Zinc plays a vital role in immunity, protein metabolism, heme synthesis, growth & development, reproduction, digestion and antioxidant function.