Zinc deficiency in chronic kidney disease: is there a relationship with adipose tissue and atherosclerosis?

Cardiovascular complications caused by an accelerated atherosclerotic disease consist the major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These patients present multiple atherosclerotic risk factors, considered traditional, as well as nontraditional risk factors such as inflammation and oxidative stress. These complications are also seen in obesity, in which endothelial dysfunction is one of the early stages of atherosclerosis. The impact of trace metal deficiencies on this process is not well studied in patients with CKD and in obese people, although the influence of trace elements depletion, particularly zinc (Zn), may have significant clinical implications. This brief review describes the functions of Zn as well as the respective role of this trace element in atherosclerosis processes, with a particular emphasis on obese patients with chronic kidney disease.