Work

Metallothionein-3-mediated intracellular zinc mediates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses in the complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced inflammatory pain mouse model

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Chronic inflammatory pain is often caused by peripheral tissue damage and persistent inflammation. This disease substantially affects patients’ physical and social well-being. We investigated the role of metallothionein-3 (MT3) in modulating complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced intracellular Zn2+ activity in an MT3 knockout mouse model of inflammatory pain in the hind paw. The results demonstrated that increasing intracellular Zn2+ levels ameliorate deficits in motor behavior, as well as inflammation in the paw, spleen, and thymus. Furthermore, intracellular Zn2+ was crucial in regulating oxidative stress markers (glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde) and inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6, in MT3 knockout mice induced with CFA. This study highlights the critical role of MT3 in coordinating the intracellular interaction with Zn2+, which is vital for the immune systems’s protective functions. These interactions are fundamental for maintaining metal ion homeostasis and regulating the synthesis of various biomolecules in the body.

Source: Cell Death Discovery

DOI: 10.1038/s41420-025-02322-1

Authors: Ngoc Buu Tran, Sook-Jeong Lee

Institution: Jeonbuk National University

Language: English

Topic: Trace Elements in Health

Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics

Field: Nursing

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690