# Distribution interactions of the trace elements zinc, copper, and selenium under conditions of their parallel deficiency

## TL;DR

The study explores how deficiencies in zinc, copper, and selenium interact in mice, revealing gender differences and compensatory effects.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a novel approach to studying parallel trace element deficiencies and their interplay in mice.

## Key findings

- Zinc deficiency mitigates symptoms of copper deficiency, especially in female mice.
- Low copper levels increase selenium concentrations in most organs.
- Males are more sensitive to copper deficiency than females.

## Abstract

Trace elements such as copper, zinc, and selenium are essential micronutrients that play crucial roles in various physiological processes, mainly through their involvement in enzymes and regulatory proteins. A deficiency of any of these elements can impair physiological functions and lead to a range of symptoms. While copper deficiency is rare, e.g., vegans are particularly susceptible to inadequate intake of zinc and selenium. To investigate the effects of multiple simultaneous deficiencies, a feeding study was conducted in adult male and female C57BL/6Jrj mice receiving diets low in copper, zinc, and selenium. This approach enabled us to explore potential interactions between trace elements and to identify organ-specific effects based on their distribution profiles. We observed a substantial depletion of copper and selenium concentrations in the circulation and in almost all organs although to a varying extent. In contrast, zinc levels were well maintained and only declined in serum and bone. In line with the well-known antagonistic relationship between copper and zinc, our findings revealed that zinc deficiency mitigated symptoms of copper deficiency, which was most pronounced in female mice. Moreover, copper deficiency led to increased selenium concentrations in various organs, which, however, was not accompanied by generally higher selenoprotein expression. Therefore, it is essential to consider potential effects of single trace element deficiencies on other trace elements taking also combined effects into account.

Image 1

•A parallel deficiency of zinc, copper, and selenium was established in adult mice.•Males are more sensitive to copper deficiency than females.•A zinc deficiency mitigates symptoms of copper deficiency.•Low copper levels increase selenium concentrations in most organs tested.

A parallel deficiency of zinc, copper, and selenium was established in adult mice.

Males are more sensitive to copper deficiency than females.

A zinc deficiency mitigates symptoms of copper deficiency.

Low copper levels increase selenium concentrations in most organs tested.