Zinc transporters ZnT3 and ZnT6 are downregulated in the spinal cords of patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

The loss of homeostasis of essential metals is associated with various diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies have shown that the levels of zinc (Zn) are significantly higher in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Zn transporters and metallothioneins tightly control intracellular and extracellular Zn levels.