Copper ions: The invisible killer of cardiovascular disease (Review)

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Trace Element Metabolism

Background:

• Copper is an essential trace element vital for physiological functions, especially cardiac health.
• Copper-induced cell death is increasingly recognized as a factor in cardiovascular disease development.
• Maintaining copper homeostasis is critical for preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physiological roles of copper, including its metabolism, absorption, transport, and excretion.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases linked to copper deficiency and excess.
• To summarize current and future therapeutic strategies for copper imbalance in cardiovascular disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of copper's role in physiology and pathology.
• Analysis of copper metabolism pathways.
• Examination of copper-induced cell death mechanisms.
• Review of therapeutic interventions for copper imbalance.

Main Results:

• Copper plays multifaceted roles in cardiac function and overall physiology.
• Disruptions in copper homeostasis (both deficiency and excess) contribute to cardiovascular pathology.
• Copper-induced cell death pathways are significant in cardiovascular disease.
• Various strategies exist to manage copper imbalances, each with limitations.

Conclusions:

• Copper homeostasis is essential for cardiovascular health.
• Understanding copper metabolism and its impact on cell death is key to addressing cardiovascular diseases.
• Further research into copper-based therapies holds promise for cardiovascular disease treatment.