Which of the following physiological processes is zinc primarily involved in?
(A) Regulation of protein synthesis

(B) Activation of vitamin D

(C) Conversion of carbohydrates into energy

(D) DNA synthesis and cell division

(E) Modulation of neurotransmitter release
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

(A) Regulation of protein synthesis
Zinc is essential for ribosomal structure and function. It acts as a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in transcription and translation. Hence, correct.

(D) DNA synthesis and cell division
Zinc is required for DNA and RNA polymerases and zinc-finger proteins that regulate gene expression. It is essential for growth, tissue repair, and immune function. Hence, correct.

(E) Modulation of neurotransmitter release
Zinc acts as a neuromodulator, especially in glutamatergic synapses, influencing synaptic transmission and neuronal signaling. Hence, correct.

Information Booster:

• Zinc and Zinc-Finger Proteins: Zinc stabilizes zinc-finger motifs in transcription factors, enabling DNA binding and gene regulation.

• Immune Function: Zinc deficiency impairs T-cell function and increases susceptibility to infections.

• Growth and Development: Zinc is critical during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence due to its role in cell proliferation.

• Antioxidant Role: Zinc is a structural component of the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), helping protect cells from oxidative stress.

Additional Knowledge:

(B) Activation of vitamin D
Vitamin D activation occurs through hydroxylation in the liver (25-hydroxylation) and kidney (1-α hydroxylation) via cytochrome P450 enzymes. Zinc is not the primary activator. Hence, incorrect.

(C) Conversion of carbohydrates into energy
Carbohydrate metabolism mainly depends on magnesium-dependent kinases and B-vitamin–dependent enzymes. Zinc does not have a primary metabolic role here. Hence, incorrect.