The interplay between trace element zinc and chronic liver diseases: Still water run deep

Zinc is an indispensable trace element that plays a position in regulating human metabolism, immune function, and cell signaling. Zinc homeostasis is indispensible for multiple pathophysiological processes, such as apoptosis, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and immune responses, accounting for normal function with respect to the liver. The disturbance of zinc homeostasis is associated with the development, progression or even deterioration pertaining to various chronic liver diseases (CLDs), particularly metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Interestingly, the interplay between serum zinc levels and CLDs remains in controversy. The focus of this review is to comprehensively elucidate the relationship between serum zinc levels and CLDs and shed light on the zinc's physiological function in liver. More importantly, this review highlights the administration of zinc may become a potential therapeutic strategy in the clinical management of MAFLD. • Zinc is associated with the progression to various chronic liver diseases. • Zinc homeostasis is indispensible for multiple pathophysiological processes. • Zinc management has been widely investigated as a potential adjunct therapy. • The interplay between serum zinc levels and CLDs remains in controversy.