Cu Metabolism

Question 1

How was Cp linked to anaemia?

Answer 1

1948 - multicopper binding protein isolated with serum oxidase activity.
1960 - Cp has ferroxidase activity.
1966 - Cp increases iron loading rate onto Tf.

Question 2

Where can Cu be found in the plasma?

Answer 2

80% bound to Cp (solely used for enzymatic activity.

20% bound to albumin and histidine = metabolically active form transferred between tissues.

Question 3

What biomarker can be used to demonstrate early signs of Cu deficiency?

Answer 3

CytC oxidase activity depression. Increase activity by giving Cu supplements.

Question 4

What are the clinical features of chronic Cu deficiency?

Answer 4

Failure of babies to thrive 
Anaemia 
Oedema and low serum albumin 
Impaired immunity 
Neuro abnormalities
Tortuous dilated blood vessels 
Hair and skin hyPOpigmentation.

Question 5

What are tortuous dilated blood vessels a result of?

Answer 5

collagen and elastin.

Question 6

What is the average daily copper intake in vegetarians and meat eaters?

Answer 6

0. 6 to 1.6 mg/day in developed countries.

2. 1 to 3.9 for vegetarian diets!

Question 7

Why is it thought that ATP7A is not expressed in the liver?

Answer 7

If it were - would pump Cu into sinusoidal space and back into circulation rather than delivering excess Cu into bile.