Gene expression changes induced by zinc deficiency in intestinal goblet cells

Approximately 17% of the global population is affected by zinc deficiency, resulting in severe health consequences such as impaired immune function and increased susceptibility to infections and inflammation, as well as severe degeneration of the intestinal epithelium and mucus.

The underlying cellular processes, particularly regarding changes of mucus composition, zinc homeostasis and immune defense by human goblet cells are, however, not yet completely understood.