Which trace mineral contributes to the regulation of immune function?

The trace mineral that significantly contributes to the regulation of immune function is zinc. Zinc plays a crucial role in various aspects of the immune system, including the development and function of immune cells such as T lymphocytes and macrophages. It is vital for the production of antibodies, helping the body to respond effectively to infections.

Zinc also has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage and supports the skin's barrier function, which is a first line of defense against pathogens. Adequate zinc levels are necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system, and deficiencies can lead to a weakened immune response, increasing susceptibility to infections and illness.

While selenium, fluoride, and magnesium each have their roles in health, they do not specifically focus on immune function to the same extent as zinc. Selenium does play a role in antioxidant defense and may influence immune response but is not as directly associated with immune regulation as zinc. Fluoride is primarily known for its role in dental health, and magnesium is involved in numerous biochemical reactions but does not have a direct impact on immune function.