Micronutrient (Zn, Cu, Fe)-gene interactions in ageing and inflammatory age-related diseases: Implications for treatments

► The role played by the main micronutrients and by their gene-interactions in ageing and in some age-related diseases (dementia, cardiovascular diseases) is described, with a special focus on their implications for a more correct supplementation or chelation in relation to their deficiency or toxicosis, respectively. ► Through a nutrigenomic or nutrigenetic approach, their use may be of benefit for healthy ageing and longevity. ► The proteins involved in micronutrient transport are not precise biomarkers for testing the micronutrients' status within the body and, consequently, it may result somewhat problematic to diagnose micronutrients deficiency or toxicosis. ► The metal-speciation analysis may be a valid tool for a better quantification of the micronutrient status. ► The association between the micronutrient-gene interactions and the metal-speciation analysis can give a more complete picture of the old individuals who effectively need in micronutrient supplementation or chelation in order to achieve healthy ageing and longevity or for the outcome from the pathology.