Cor Vasa 2000, 41(6):290-293
Current concepts on the role of copper in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease
- I. interní klinika 3. lékařské fakulty Univerzity Karlovy v Praze, Fakultní nemocnice Královské Vinohrady, Praha, Česká republika
Although dietary copper deficiency is regarded as a cause of the high prevalence of coronary heart disease in the industrialized nations, prospective epidemiological studies have shown that increased serum copper levels are a significant and independent predictor of the risk of myocardial infarction and are associated with increased coronary mortality. The results of these studies have turned the attention to the involvement and role of copper in atherogenesis and pathogenesis of coronary heart disease.
Copper ions, making part of some metallic enzymes, are involved in several processes occurring in the development of atherosclerosis: have an effect on the metabolism of low- and high-density lipoprotein, and enhance the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins in the vessel wall; they are involved in macrophage activation and foam cell production, and also have an effect on the synthesis of extracellular matrix in atherosclerotic plaques. By the above mechanisms, copper ions are involved directly and indirectly; through modified LDL particles; in the development of endothelial dysfunction.
The review article summarizes basic data on the role played by copper in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease, and presents evidence (in the form of a survey of results of experimental, epidemiological and clinical studies) on the contribution of copper ions to this process.
Keywords: Copper; Atherosclerosis; Coronary heart disease
Published: June 1, 2000 Show citation