The Influence of Zinc and Citrate on T Cell Activation and Differentiation in Mixed Lymphocyte Cultures

Abstract

Scope Zinc is important for a balanced immune system, but the mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. One possibility is an interaction of zinc with the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), in which zinc inhibits the mitochondrial aconitase leading to an increase in intracellular citrate concentration as described for prostate cells. Therefore, the immune modulatory effects of zinc and citrate and their interaction in mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC) are studied. Methods and results After allogeneic (MLC) or superantigen stimulation, the interferon‐γ (IFNγ) production is quantified by ELISA and T cell subpopulations are determined by Western Blot. Intracellular concentrations of citrate and zinc are measured. Zinc and citrate reduce the IFNγ expression and the pro‐inflammatory T helper cells (Th) 1 and Th17 in MLC. While zinc increases regulatory T cells, citrate reduces them. After superantigen stimulation IFNγ production is decreased only by citrate but increased by zinc. Zinc does not affect citrate concentration, while citrate impairs zinc uptake. Thus, zinc and citrate independently regulate IFNy expression. Conclusion These results may explain the immunosuppressive effect of blood products anticoagulated by citrate. In addition, high citrate consumption may lead to immunosuppressive effects, so upper limits for citrate should be established.