UF researchers develop first method to accurately measure zinc in humans

December 15, 2011
Topic(s): Announcements, IFAS, New Technology, Nutrition, Research

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GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Zinc is an essential nutrient, but until now, there has not been an effective way to measure it in our bodies, say University of Florida researchers.

The researchers have uncovered biomarkers that, for the first time, allow for accurate measurement of human zinc nutritional status. Biomarkers are quantifiable substances in organisms that can indicate body irregularities such as nutrient deficiencies or disease.

The biomarkers can be measured from blood samples or from mouth swabs and allow for even marginal zinc deficiencies to be detected, which is something current zinc tests can’t do.

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