A review of the biochemical roles, toxicity and interactions of zinc, copper and iron: II. Copper.
Copper is an essential nutrient for living matter. Through its cuproenzymes, copper displays a variety of metabolic functions. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry, radioisotope studies and establishment of cell and molecular biology have provided the necessary tools to study copper absorption, metabolism, physiology and biochemistry. The vital role of metallothionein in copper homeostasis is examined. Ceruloplasmin represents the molecular link between copper and iron metabolism. The genetic predisposition of copper toxicity has been attributed to the cause of Wilson's disease in humans. The interrelationships between copper and other dietary factors is addressed.
Abdel-Mageed
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Comparative Toxicology Laboratories, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-5606.
Oehme
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D000818:Animals; D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002621:Chemistry; D003300:Copper / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000633:toxicity; D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D009751:Nutritional Requirements
D003300:Copper