Copper in Brain and Neurodegeneration

Abstract

AbstractCu is an essential element for the brain. It is involved in neurotransmission and is required for several cuproenzymes of the brain. Cu deficiency and Cu excess are associated with Menkes disease and Wilson's disease, respectively, and the importance of Cu in the brain is amply illustrated by the severe neurological symptoms elicited by these diseases. Disruption of Cu homeostasis is also evident in complex neurodegenerative diseases and is implicated in their pathogenesis. Cu influences the regulation and aggregation of key Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathological proteins such as amyloid precursor protein, amyloid‐β, and tau. Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with a decrease..