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Caeruloplasmin: a plasma protein, enzyme, and antioxidant
Annals of Clinical Biochemistry
|November 1, 1978
Summary
Caeruloplasmin, a plasma protein, plays key roles in copper transport, iron oxidation (ferroxidase activity), and potentially acts as an antioxidant. Its ferroxidase function is crucial for iron metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Caeruloplasmin is a major plasma protein involved in copper transport.
- Its precise physiological functions beyond copper binding require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifunctional roles of caeruloplasmin.
- To explore its protein functions, enzymic activity, and antioxidant potential.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on caeruloplasmin's functions.
- Analysis of in vitro studies investigating its enzymic and antioxidant properties.
Main Results:
- Caeruloplasmin facilitates copper transport, with 95% of serum copper bound to it.
- Its ferroxidase activity oxidizes ferrous iron to ferric iron for apotransferrin binding.
- In vitro studies demonstrate inhibition of polyunsaturated fatty acid peroxidation.
Conclusions:
- Caeruloplasmin exhibits significant roles in copper homeostasis and iron metabolism via its ferroxidase activity.
- While in vitro antioxidant activity is observed, in vivo evidence is still speculative.