Copper
DRI: 1.2 mg/day for women,1.3 mg/day for men
Toxic level: 10 mg/day
Source:
nuts,shellfish.
Mode of Action:
Copper is needed to activate lysyl oxidase, the enzyme responsible for cross linking collagen and elastin, creating connective tissue. This process gives cartilage and elastin its strength and durability. Elastin is also the main material found in blood vessels, discs, joint cartilage and skin. Any arthritis treatment will be more effective if the collagen and elastin is effectively cross linked, reducing wear and tear on the joint.
Metabolism:
It is absorbed in small intestine & metabolized in liver by various biochemical reactions.
Role:
- It plays role in Hb and collagen production, function of heart, energy production, and absorption of iron
- Ceruplasmin (involved in transport of oxidation of iron prior to haemoglobin synthesis)
- Tyrosinease and dopamine Hydroxylase (involved in synthesis catecholamine nerve transmitters & pigment melanin from tyrosine)
- Cytochrome C oxidase in the electron transport system in mitochondria.
Deficiency:
- Results in anemia.
- Low level of neutrophils in case of osteoporosis.
- Skeletal abnormalities.
