Functions of copper

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 defence
• 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:

1. Bost M et al. Dietary copper and human health: Current evidence and unresolved issues. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2016;35:107-15