Copper in brain and neurodegeneration

摘要: Cu is an essential element for the brain, and is required for many important enzymes in the brain, including cytochrome C oxidase (energy metabolism), lysyl oxidase (blood vessels), dopamineβ-hydroxylase (neurotransmission), tyrosinase (pigmentation), superoxide dismutase (antioxidant defense), and ceruloplasmin (iron transport). The importance of Cu in the brain is amply illustrated by the severe neurological symptoms elicited in disorders such as Menkes disease and Wilson’s disease, which promote Cu deficiency and excess, respectively. Disrupted Cu homeostasis is also implicated in the pathogenesis of several complex neurodegenerative diseases. Therapeutics targeting Cu redistribution have shown efficacy in these diseases.