This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

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:

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.