Gosset Molecular Classification
Metabolic Pathway
Disease Roles
Copper Metabolism Overview
Copper metabolism refers to the tightly regulated processes of copper uptake, distribution, utilization, sequestration, and excretion at both cellular and systemic levels in multicellular organisms. Copper is an essential trace element required for numerous biological functions but is toxic in excess due to its ability to generate free radicals and induce oxidative stress. It involves various proteins like Ctr1, ATP7A, ATP7B, Atox1, CCS, Cox17/SCO proteins, Metallothionein, and GSH.
Mechanism of Action
Biological Functions
Copper uptake
Copper distribution
Copper utilization
Copper sequestration
Copper excretion
Enzyme cofactor
Antioxidant defense
Iron metabolism
Neurotransmitter synthesis
Melanin synthesis
Disease Associations
Copper deficiency
Copper overload
Wilson disease
Menkes disease
Neurodegenerative diseases
Cardiovascular disorders
Metabolic syndrome
Cancer
Safety Considerations
- Copper toxicity due to free radical generation
- Oxidative stress