Oxidative stress and copper smelter workers

Abstract Heavy metals have both beneficial and nonbeneficial roles in the human body. Copper contributes to iron absorption and, with iron, mediates the production of red blood cells. Copper is involved in keeping bones, blood vessels, nerves, and immune function healthy. On the other hand, an excess of copper in the human body may lead to hepatotoxicity and toxic reactions related to oxidative stress. Peculiarly, copper is one of the most potent oxidizing metals and there are two forms: cupric and cuprous ions. In both conditions, it creates oxidative stress by carrying out a series of Fenton reactions. These reactions catalyze molecular oxygen to create free radicals and subsequently damage DNA and other biomolecules (lipids and proteins). Glutathione plays an influential role in copper metabolism and detoxifies copper through chelation. After chelating, the oxidative capacity of copper is reduced. The redox properties of copper influence many organelles of the cell. Copper is transported into the blood by a carrier protein called ceruloplasmin. Copper smelter workers are exposed to extra copper through vapor or metallic forms. Other than copper smelter workers, women who use copper-containing intrauterine devices may experience oxidative damage and consequences. Disturbances and failures of the liver, kidney, heart, and brain/neurologic are observed in long-term exposure to copper. Copper depletion with penicillamine or dimercaprol can be a therapeutic approach.