A deficiency of which one of the following minerals is most likely to lead to an immunodeficiency ?

Zinc is a nutritionally essential mineral required for catalytic, structural, and regulatory functions in the body. It is often referred to as the 'gatekeeper' of immune function because it is vital for the development and function of immune cells, including neutrophils and natural killer cells. Clinical deficiency of zinc significantly weakens the immune system, leading to a state of immunodeficiency that increases susceptibility to infections and diseases [2]. Severe zinc deficiency can cause thymic atrophy and impaired adaptive immune responses [4]. While other minerals like copper and iron also play roles in immunity, zinc deficiency is globally recognized as a major contributor to the disease burden due to its profound impact on the body's natural ability to fight pathogens [4]. In contrast, lead is primarily a toxic heavy metal that causes neurophysiological dysfunction rather than being an essential nutrient for immunity [1].

Sources

1. [1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10632063/
2. [2] https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional/
3. [4] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > 5.15.6. Trigger Effect of Acid Rain on Pollutants: > p. 105