Potential Role of Zinc, an Essential Trace Element with Antioxidant Properties in the Prevention and Management of COVID-19

Background: The global pandemic instigated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), or the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV), has intensified the quest for efficacious preventive and therapeutic solutions. Zinc, an essential trace element known for its antioxidant properties, has emerged as a potential player. Objective: This review aims to scrutinize the role of Zinc, focusing on its antioxidant capacities, in the prevention and management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), elucidating the mechanisms by which it may impede the progression and severity of the disease. Methods: Comprehensive data were gleaned from various clinical trials, research publications, and observational studies explor-ing the interaction between Zinc and SARS-CoV-2. The review evaluates both the direct antiviral effects of Zinc and its impact on host immune responses. Results: Initial research indicates that Zinc could interfere with specific phases of the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s life cycle, such as its entry into cells and subsequent replication. This effect may be due to Zinc’s ability to reduce the activity of certain viral proteins. These include the interaction between the virus’s Spike protein and the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptor on human cells, and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme essential for viral replication. Additionally, Zinc’s antioxidant properties are pivotal in bolstering the host’s immune response, mitigating oxidative stress, and reducing the severity of inflammatory cascades associated with severe COVID-19 presentations. Conclusions: The multifaceted roles of Zinc, particularly its antioxidant capabilities, underscore its potential significance in the prophylaxis and therapeutic management of COVID-19. Further rigorous clinical studies are imperative to delineate the optimal dosing, timing, and synergistic interventions that can maximize Zinc’s therapeutic benefits against the disease.