Zinc and Copper Homeostasis in Head and Neck Cancer: Review and Meta-Analysis

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#animals #copper #head-and-neck-neoplasms #homeostasis #humans

Zinc and Copper Homeostasis in Head and Neck Cancer: Review and Meta-Analysis

Ressnerova et al., 2016 | Curr Med Chem | Meta Analysis

Citation

Ressnerova Alzbeta, Raudenska Martina, ... Gumulec Jaromir. Zinc and Copper Homeostasis in Head and Neck Cancer: Review and Meta-Analysis. Curr Med Chem. 2016;23(13):1304-30

Abstract

Metals are known for playing essential roles in human physiology. Copper and zinc are trace elements closely dependent on one another and are involved in cell proliferation, growth, gene expression, apoptosis and other processes. Their homeostasis is crucial and tightly controlled by a resourceful system of transporters and transport proteins which deliver copper and zinc ions to their target sites. Abnormal zinc and copper homeostasis can be seen in a number of malignancies and also in head and neck cancer. Imbalance in this homeostasis is observed as an elevation or decrease of copper and zinc ions in serum or tissue levels in patients with cancer. In head and neck cancer these altered levels stand out from those of other malignancies which makes them an object of interest and therefore zinc and copper ions might be a good target for further research of head and neck cancer development and progression. This review aims to summarize the physiological roles of copper and zinc, its binding and transport mechanisms, and based on those, its role in head and neck cancer. To provide stronger evidence, dysregulation of levels is analysed by a meta-analytical approach.

Key Findings

To provide stronger evidence, dysregulation of levels is analysed by a meta-analytical approach.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population cancer
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Copper
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms
  • Homeostasis
  • Humans
  • Zinc

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Review
  • Vertical: zinc

Provenance

  • PMID: 27048341
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: Not in PMC
  • Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09