What role does zinc play in the body?

Zinc plays a crucial role in various biological functions, most notably in supporting immune function, wound healing, and gene expression. It is an essential trace mineral that acts as a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in metabolic processes.

In terms of immune function, zinc is vital for the development and function of immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes and macrophages, which are essential components of the adaptive immune response. Sufficient levels of zinc help in maintaining the integrity of the immune system, while deficiency can lead to increased susceptibility to infections.

Additionally, zinc is critical for wound healing as it supports cell proliferation and collagen synthesis, which are necessary for tissue repair. This mineral also plays a role in gene expression by influencing the activity of transcription factors and enzyme systems that regulate the expression of genes involved in various physiological processes.

While other options mention important functions related to other nutrients or roles that zinc might indirectly influence, they do not capture the primary functions of zinc in the body as comprehensively as supporting immune function, wound healing, and gene expression.