Micronutrient-Endocrine Interactions: A Critical Review of the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Hormonal Regulation – A Case Study from Pakistan, Iran, Azerbaijan and Russia
Keywords:
Endocrine functions, Hormone regulation, Micronutrients, Zinc, Selenium, IronAbstract
Essential micronutrients are vital for regulating hormonal balance and supporting the integrity of the endocrine system, which is critical for maintaining optimal human health. By examining facts and analyzing data collected from various primary and secondary sources belong to Pakistan, Iran, Azerbaijan and Russia, this review article interrogates the crucial roles of key micronutrients -- zinc, iodine, selenium, iron and calcium (vitamin D) -- on the endocrine system. Adequate intake of these essential nutrients is important for hormone production. Excess or deficiency of these nutrients can adversely affect health, disturb hormonal balance, and lead to severe diseases. Zinc is crucial for maintaining osteo-muscular integrity, regulating thyroid hormone biosynthesis, and exerting antioxidant properties. Dysregulation of zinc is implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and reproductive dysfunction. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, and its dysregulation can result in hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Additionally, iodine influences cardiovascular health and glucose metabolism. Adequate iodine intake is particularly crucial for pregnant and lactating women to ensure fetal health. In addition to other nutrients, selenium plays a pivotal role in glucose regulation, the production of brain hormones, and metabolism. Its deficiency can lead to metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and fertility issues. Furthermore, iron overload in thalassemia patients adversely affects hormonal balance. It impacts growth due to abnormal mineralization of bones, disturbs normal sexual development, disrupts thyroid hormone production, and causes diabetes mellitus. Vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health and parathyroid hormone production. Uncontrolled regulation of these hormones can lead to osteoporosis and hyperthyroidism. Moreover, vitamin D is important for heart and muscle contraction, and its disturbance can result in severe disorders such as myocardial infarction and stroke. This review emphasizes the critical role of micronutrient homeostasis in maintaining endocrine function and highlights the underlying mechanisms by which these nutrients modulate hormonal regulation. The article underscores the importance of optimizing micronutrient status to prevent endocrinopathies and promote overall physiological well-being.
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