Copper biochemistry and molecular biology
Abstract
In this review, our basic and most recent understanding of copper biochemistry and molecular biology for mammals (including humans) is described. Information is provided on the nutritional biochemistry of copper, including food sources, intestinal absorption, transport, tissue distribution, and excretion, along with descriptions of copper binding proteins and other factors involved and their roles in these processes. The metabolism of copper and its importance for the functions of a roster of vital enzymes is detailed. Its potential toxicology is also addressed. Alterations in copper metabolism associated with genetic and nongenetic diseases are summarized, including potential connections to inflammation, cancer, atherosclerosis, and anemia, and the effects of genetic copper deficiency (Menkes syndrome) and copper overload (Wilson disease). Understanding these diseases suggests new ways of viewing the normal functions of copper and provides new insights into the details of copper transport and distribution in mammals.
Citations
Endogenous Copper for Nanocatalytic Oxidative Damage and Self-Protection Pathway Breakage of Cancer.
Related Concepts
Related Feeds
Cancer Metabolism
In order for cancer cells to maintain rapid, uncontrolled cell proliferation, they must acquire a source of energy. Cancer cells acquire metabolic energy from their surrounding environment and utilize the host cell nutrients to do so. Here is the latest research on cancer metabolism.
Anemia
Anemia develops when your blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells. Anemia of inflammation (AI, also called anemia of chronic disease) is a common, typically normocytic, normochromic anemia that is caused by an underlying inflammatory disease. Here is the latest research on anemia.