Copper-dependent enzyme

Copper-dependent enzymes (cuproenzymes) are a diverse group of enzymes that require copper ions as essential cofactors for catalytic activity in biological systems[5][14][15]. These enzymes play key roles in a variety of physiological processes such as cellular respiration (cytochrome c oxidase), antioxidant defense (superoxide dismutase), formation of connective tissue (lysyl oxidase), iron metabolism (ceruloplasmin, hephaestin), neurotransmitter synthesis (dopamine beta-hydroxylase, peptidylglycine alpha-amidating mono-oxygenase), and pigment production (tyrosinase)[15]. Copper ions within these enzymes participate directly in redox reactions, electron transport, and substrate transformation. Disorders of copper homeostasis can cause dysfunction of these enzymes and are associated with multiple diseases, but "Copper cofactor enzymes" does not designate a specific molecular target suitable for direct pharmacological intervention as a singular entity[5][14][15].

Other names

cuproenzymecopper enzymecopper metalloenzymecopper-containing enzyme

Chelation (for copper chelators); Enzyme inhibition or modulation (if a given drug targets a specific enzyme in the class, e.g., tyrosinase inhibitors)