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Functions of copper

Authoring team

Copper is required for

  • iron metabolism through ceruloplasmin
    • ceruloplasmin is a ferroxidase, catalysing the conversion of ferrous to ferric iron; for this reason copper is required to optimise binding of iron to transferrin and hence to allow adequate synthesis of haemoglobin
  • antioxidant defense
  • neuropeptide synthesis
  • immune function
  • melanin pigment formation (1).

Copper is an essential co-factor for the following enzymes:

  • cytochrome oxidase
  • superoxide dismutase
  • tyrosinase
  • dopamine beta-hydroxylase
  • lysyl oxidase

Reference:

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