Why is copper an important trace element?
Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element capable of fluctuating between the oxidized (Cu2+) and reduced (Cu+) states. It is precisely this chemical property that makes Cu an ideal redox active co-factor for a variety of enzymes such as cytochrome oxidase (energy generation), Cu, Zn superoxide dismutase (protection from oxidative stress), ceruloplasmin (iron mobilization), tyrosinase (pigmentation), peptidyl, glycyl -amidating monooxidase (neuro- and bio-active peptide modification) and many other important enzymatic activities (1). This same redox activity of Cu renders it a potentially toxic metal when accumulated to high levels or in an uncontrolled manner. From a number of studies it has become clear that cells have orchestrated sophisticated homeostatic control mechanisms to control the uptake, distribution and efflux of Cu ions to establish and maintain appropriate Cu levels. Indeed, many of the genes and proteins that play these crucial roles in Cu balance were first identified
