Journal of Clinical Pediatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (1): 64-70.doi: 10.12372/jcp.2026.25e0166

• Literature Review • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research progress on the role of zinc in the occurrence, development and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in children

ZHOU Yuanke1,2, SUN Lina2, FANG Ying2()   

  1. 1. Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710000, Shaanxi, China
    2. Department of Gastroenterology, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Xi'an 710000, Shaanxi, China
  • Received:2025-02-27 Accepted:2025-05-28 Published:2026-01-15 Online:2026-01-05

Abstract:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory disease involving the entire gastrointestinal tract. Nutrient deficiencies are common in IBD patients, and zinc, as an important nutrient for the body to maintain the physiological cellular functions, is widely recognized as beneficial in the treatment of many gastrointestinal diseases. In recent years, research on the mechanism of zinc and IBD has been emerging continuously. More and more studies have revealed that zinc deficiency is common among children with IBD. Zinc deficiency is associated with disease recurrence in children with IBD, as well as the occurrence of complications such as malnutrition, growth retardation, and anemia. This article will review the progress of basic and clinical researches related to zinc and IBD, providing references for the mechanism research and optimized treatment of IBD.

Key words: zinc, inflammatory bowel disease, pathogenesis, therapy, child

CLC Number: 

  • R72