Serum Zinc, Copper, and Iron Levels Correlate with Slc39a14 Gene Expression in Pregnant Women Attending a Specialist Hospital in Sokoto, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56919/usci.2543.029Keywords:
Zinc, Copper, Iron, Micronutrient deficiency, SLC39A14 gene, Pregnancy, SokotoAbstract
Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly zinc, copper, and iron, have been implicated in poor maternal nutrition and foetal development, yet their interactions with genetic regulators remain underexplored. These studies underscore the importance of both micronutrient status and gene expression in maintaining maternal nutritional balance and support the inclusion of genetic screening in maternal nutrition research. Early detection of micronutrient deficiencies and gene-related absorption inefficiencies may help improve maternal health in resource-limited settings. Evidence from sub-Saharan Africa reveals a high prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women, emphasizing the need for improved nutritional strategies. This study assessed serum concentrations of zinc, copper, and iron and examined SLC39A14 gene expression, a divalent metal ion transporter, among 248 pregnant women aged 17–48 years attending the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto. Serum micronutrient levels were measured using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, while SLC39A14 expression was quantified via Real-Time qPCR.The mean serum concentrations were as follows: zinc ranged from 0.120 ± 0.048 mg/L (15–19 years) to 0.162 ± 0.060 mg/L (30–39 years); iron from 2.100 ± 1.010 mg/L to 3.200 ± 1.250 mg/L; and copper from 0.050 ± 0.060 mg/L to 0.080 ± 0.060 mg/L. Zinc deficiency was highly prevalent across age groups, while copper deficiency was more pronounced in younger women. A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between elevated SLC39A14 gene expression (lower Ct values) and increased serum zinc and iron levels (Pearson r = -0.41 for zinc, -0.38 for iron), suggesting that SLC39A14 facilitates the uptake and homeostasis of these micronutrients. No significant correlation was found between SLC39A14 expression and copper levels, indicating different regulatory pathways.
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