Final answer:
Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome is caused by a copper deficiency, which affects the formation of connective tissues and can lead to skeletal and neurological issues. It is not caused by deficiencies of iron, zinc, vitamin D, or other nutrients. The correct option is b) Copper deficiency
Step-by-step explanation:
Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome is associated with a copper deficiency. Copper is essential in various bodily functions, including the formation of connective tissues due to its role in the enzymatic oxidation of lysine into aldehyde groups necessary for cross-linkage in proteins like elastin and collagen. Copper deficiency disrupts the formation of elastin, leading to skeletal changes, osteoporosis, and potential spontaneous fractures.
Furthermore, the syndrome is characterized by neurological features due to reduced activities of copper-dependent enzymes, which are crucial for brain development and function. Although it might present with symptoms that could be mistaken for other deficiencies, it is copper that is specifically deficient in this condition. Defects in hemoglobin synthesis can occur as a result of this deficiency, but the syndrome is not caused by a deficiency in other nutrients such as iron, zinc, or vitamin D.
Unlike conditions like rickets, which arise from a lack of vitamin D leading to improper bone development, Menkes Kinky Hair Syndrome is a disorder of copper metabolism. A copper deficiency can also cause hypoferremia, leading to anemia due to the decreased synthesis of ceruloplasmin which prevents the release of iron into the plasma. The correct option is b) Copper deficiency