Zinc as a Neuroprotective Nutrient for COVID-19–Related Neuropsychiatric Manifestations: A Literature Review

The outbreak of the pandemic associated with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) led researchers to find new potential treatments, including nonpharmacological molecules such as zinc (Zn(2+)). Specifically, the use of Zn(2+) as a therapy for SARS-CoV-2 infection is based on several findings: 1) the possible role of the anti-inflammatory activity of Zn(2+) on the aberrant inflammatory response triggered by COronaVIrus Disease 19 (COVID-19), 2) properties of Zn(2+) in modulating the competitive balance between the host and the invading pathogens, and 3) the antiviral activity of Zn(2+) on a number of pathogens, including coronaviruses. Furthermore, Zn(2+) has been found to play a central role in regulating brain functioning and many disorders have been associated with Zn(2+) deficiency, including neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, and brain injuries. Within this context, we carried out a narrative review to provide an overview of the evidence relating to the effects of Zn(2+) on the immune and nervous systems, and the therapeutic use of such micronutrients in both neurological and infective disorders, with the final goal of elucidating the possible use of Zn(2+) as a preventive or therapeutic intervention in COVID-19. Overall, the results from the available evidence showed that, owing to its neuroprotective properties, Zn(2+) supplementation could be effective not only on COVID‐19–related symptoms but also on virus replication, as well as on COVID-19–related inflammation and neurological damage. However, further clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of Zn(2+) as a nonpharmacological treatment of COVID-19 are required to achieve an overall improvement in outcome and prognosis.