What is a zinc ionophore?

A zinc ionophore is a substance that transports zinc particles across the cell wall barrier into the center of the cell. This plays a critical role in boosting immune system function. Viruses reproduce in the center of the cells. For zinc to be able to stop the viruses from reproducing, it needs to get to the center of the cells but it cannot do it by itself. A zinc ionophore is required to push zinc into the cells where it needs to be. Quercetin is a plant pigment that has been identified as a zinc ionophore. It is found naturally in green tea, apples, peppers, red wine, and berries.