RESUMO

The zinc deficiency affects approximately a third of the world population, principally in the developing countries, the rural areas and in the poorest communities, where this micronutrient deficiency is one of the most prevalent risk factor for nutrientrelated diseases. This paper compiles scientific advances about the key role of the essential trace element zinc in the neurogenesis control, brain function and cognitive development. The aim of this work is to generate in health professionals, interest about the zinc deficiency effects in neuro-intellectual development and its negative impact in the cultural, economic and social development of the countries.

Assuntos

Sistema Nervoso Central/efeitos dos fármacos , Desenvolvimento Infantil/efeitos dos fármacos , Transtornos Cognitivos/etiologia , Cognição/efeitos dos fármacos , Saúde Global , Zinco/deficiência , Sistema Nervoso Central/fisiopatologia , Desenvolvimento Infantil/fisiologia , Pré-Escolar , Cognição/fisiologia , Transtornos Cognitivos/fisiopatologia , Transtornos Cognitivos/prevenção & controle , Humanos , Zinco/administração & dosagem