Roles of metallothionein in copper homeostasis: responses to Cu-deficient diets in mice

Cuproptosis and Cu: a new paradigm in cellular death and their role in non-cancerous diseases

Cuproptosis, a newly characterized form of regulated cell death driven by copper accumulation, has emerged as a significant mechanism underlying various non-cancerous diseases. This review delves into the complex interplay between copper metabolism and the pathogenesis of conditions such as Wilson's disease (WD), neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular pathologies. We examine the molecular mechanisms by which copper dysregulation induces cuproptosis, highlighting the pivotal roles of key copper transporters and enzymes. Additionally, we evaluate the therapeutic potential of copper chelation strategies, which have shown promise in experimental models by mitigating copper-induced cellular damage and restoring physiological homeostasis. Through a comprehensive synthesis of recent advancements and current knowledge, this review underscores the necessity of further research to translate these findings into clinical applications. The ultimate goal is to harness the therapeutic potential of targeting cuproptosis, thereby improving disease management and patient outcomes in non-cancerous conditions associated with copper dysregulation.

Cuproptosis: unveiling a new frontier in cancer biology and therapeutics

Copper plays vital roles in numerous cellular processes and its imbalance can lead to oxidative stress and dysfunction. Recent research has unveiled a unique form of copper-induced cell death, termed cuproptosis, which differs from known cell death mechanisms. This process involves the interaction of copper with lipoylated tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes, causing protein aggregation and cell death. Recently, a growing number of studies have explored the link between cuproptosis and cancer development. This review comprehensively examines the systemic and cellular metabolism of copper, including tumor-related signaling pathways influenced by copper. It delves into the discovery and mechanisms of cuproptosis and its connection to various cancers. Additionally, the review suggests potential cancer treatments using copper ionophores that induce cuproptosis, in combination with small molecule drugs, for precision therapy in specific cancer types.

Metallothionein-3: 63 Cu(I) binds to human 68 Zn7 -βα MT3 with no preference for Cu4 -β cluster formation

Human metallothioneins (MTs) are involved in binding the essential elements, Cu(I) and Zn(II), and the toxic element, Cd(II), in metal-thiolate clusters using 20 reduced cysteines. The brain-specific MT3 binds a mixture of Cu(I) and Zn(II) in vivo. Its metallation properties are critically important because of potential connections between Cu, Zn and neurodegenerative diseases. We report that the use of isotopically pure 63 Cu(I) and 68 Zn(II) greatly enhances the element resolution in the ESI-mass spectral data revealing species with differing Cu:Zn ratios but the same total number of metals. Room temperature phosphorescence and circular dichroism spectral data measured in parallel with ESI-mass spectral data identified the presence of specific Cu(I)-thiolate clusters in the presence of Zn(II). A series of Cu(I)-thiolate clusters form following Cu(I) addition to apo MT3: the two main clusters that form are a Cu6 cluster in the β domain followed by a Cu4 cluster in the α domain. 63 Cu(I) addition to 68 Zn7 -MT3 results in multiple species, including clustered Cu5 Zn5 -MT3 and Cu9 Zn3 -MT3. We assign the domain location of the metals for Cu5 Zn5 -MT3 as a Cu5 Zn1 -β cluster and a Zn4 -α cluster and for Cu9 Zn3 -MT3 as a Cu6 -β cluster and a Cu3 Zn3 -α cluster. While many reports of the average MT3 metal content exist, determining the exact Cu,Zn stoichiometry has proven very difficult even with native ESI-MS. The work in this paper solves the ambiguity introduced by the overlap of the naturally abundant Cu(I) and Zn(II) isotopes. Contrary to other reports, there is no indication of a major fraction of Cu4 -β-Znn -α-MT3 forming.

63Cu(I) binding to human kidney 68Zn7-βα MT1A: determination of Cu(I)-thiolate cluster domain specificity from ESI-MS and room temperature phosphorescence spectroscopy

Mammalian metallothioneins (MTs) are important proteins in Zn(II) and Cu(I) homeostasis with the Zn(II) and Cu(I) binding to the 20 cysteines in metal-thiolate clusters. Previous electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometric (MS) analyses of Cu(I) binding to Zn7-MT were complicated by significant overlap of the natural abundance isotopic patterns for Zn(II) and Cu(I) leading to impossibly ambiguous stoichiometries. In this paper, isotopically pure 63Cu(I) and 68Zn(II) allowed determination of the specific stoichiometries in the 68 Zn,63Cu-βα MT1A species formed following the stepwise addition of 63Cu(I) to 68Zn7-βα MT1A. These species were characterized by ESI-MS and room temperature emission spectroscopy. The key species that form and their emission band centres are Zn5Cu5-βα MT1A (λ = 684 nm), Zn4Cu6-βα MT1A (λ = 750 nm), Zn3Cu9-βα MT1A (λ = 750 nm), Zn2Cu10-βα MT1A (λ = 750 nm), and Zn1Cu14-βα MT1A (λ = 634 nm). The specific domain stoichiometry of each species was determined by assessing the species forming following 63Cu(I) addition to the 68Zn3-β MT1A and 68Zn4-α MT1A domain fragments. The domain fragment emission suggests that Zn5Cu5-βα MT1A contains a Zn1Cu5-β cluster and the Zn4Cu6-βα MT1A, Zn3Cu9-βα MT1A, and Zn2Cu10-βα MT1A each contain a Cu6-β cluster. The species forming with >10 mol. eq. of 63Cu(I) in βα-MT1A exhibit emission from the Cu6-β cluster and an α domain cluster. This high emission intensity is seen at the end of the titrations of 68Zn7-βα MT1A and the 68Zn4-α MT1A domain fragment suggesting that the initial presence of the Zn(II) results in clustered Cu(I) binding in the α domain.

Comparison of X-ray absorption spectra from copper-loaded bovine and ovine livers

BACKGROUND

Copper toxicity and hepatic copper accumulation pose a serious risk to ruminant health and production. Differences in the copper-handling mechanisms of cattle and sheep have been noted, not only in comparison to each other, but also in comparison to 'copper-tolerant' monogastric species. Ruminants appear less able to cope with rising liver copper concentration than monogastric counterparts, with sheep in general less able to cope with elevated copper intake than cattle.

METHODS

X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) was used to investigate the differences between the livers of these species at high copper status.

RESULTS

The X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra indicated that the hepatic copper compound is most likely to be bound to metallothionein; consistent with monogastric species.

CONCLUSION

Although, most likely stored as copper-metallothionein, there may be a role for glutathione as a short-term, intermediate copper buffer which may have more relevance to sheep than cattle. The potential that thiomolybdate bound copper can be stored in the liver could not be ruled out.

Crossroads between membrane trafficking machinery and copper homeostasis in the nerve system

Imbalanced copper homeostasis and perturbation of membrane trafficking are two common symptoms that have been associated with the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. Accumulating evidence from biophysical, cellular and in vivo studies suggest that membrane trafficking orchestrates both copper homeostasis and neural functions-however, a systematic review of how copper homeostasis and membrane trafficking interplays in neurons remains lacking. Here, we summarize current knowledge of the general trafficking itineraries for copper transporters and highlight several critical membrane trafficking regulators in maintaining copper homeostasis. We discuss how membrane trafficking regulators may alter copper transporter distribution in different membrane compartments to regulate intracellular copper homeostasis. Using Parkinson's disease and MEDNIK as examples, we further elaborate how misregulated trafficking regulators may interplay parallelly or synergistically with copper dyshomeostasis in devastating pathogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we explore multiple unsolved questions and highlight the existing challenges to understand how copper homeostasis is modulated through membrane trafficking.

Time dependent impact of copper oxide nanomaterials on the expression of genes associated with oxidative stress, metal binding, inflammation and mucus secretion in single and co-culture intestinal in vitro models

The potential for ingestion of copper oxide nanomaterials (CuO NMs) is increasing due to their increased exploitation. Investigation of changes in gene expression allows toxicity to be detected at an early stage of NM exposure and can enable investigation of the mechanism of toxicity. Here, undifferentiated Caco-2 cells, differentiated Caco-2 cells, Caco-2/HT29-MTX (mucus secreting) and Caco-2/Raji B (M cell model) co-cultures were exposed to CuO NMs and copper sulphate (CuSO₄) in order to determine their impacts. Cellular responses were measured in terms of production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the gene expression of an antioxidant (haem oxygenase 1 (HMOX1)), the pro-inflammatory cytokine (interleukin 8 (IL8)), the metal binding (metallothionein 1A and 2A (MT1A and MT2A)) and the mucus secreting (mucin 2 (MUC2)), as well as HMOX-1 protein level. While CuSO₄ induced ROS production in cells, no such effect was observed for CuO NMs. However, these particles did induce an increase in the level of HMOX-1 protein and upregulation of HMOX1, MT2A, IL8 and MUC2 genes in all cell models. In conclusion, the expression of HMOX1, IL8 and MT2A were responsive to CuO NMs at 4 to 12 h post exposure when investigating the toxicity of NMs using intestinal in vitro models. These findings can inform the selection of endpoints, timepoints and models when investigating NM toxicity to the intestine in vitro in the future.

Copper interferes with selenoprotein synthesis and activity

Selenium and copper are essential trace elements for humans, needed for the biosynthesis of enzymes contributing to redox homeostasis and redox-dependent signaling pathways. Selenium is incorporated as selenocysteine into the active site of redox-relevant selenoproteins including glutathione peroxidases (GPX) and thioredoxin reductases (TXNRD). Copper-dependent enzymes mediate electron transfer and other redox reactions. As selenoprotein expression can be modulated e.g. by H2O2, we tested the hypothesis that copper status affects selenoprotein expression. To this end, hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells and mice were exposed to a variable copper and selenium supply in a physiologically relevant concentration range, and transcript and protein expression as well as GPX and TXNRD activities were compared. Copper suppressed selenoprotein mRNA levels of GPX1 and SELENOW, downregulated GPX and TXNRD activities and decreased UGA recoding efficiency in reporter cells. The interfering effects were successfully suppressed by applying the copper chelators bathocuproinedisulfonic acid or tetrathiomolybdate. In mice, a decreased copper supply moderately decreased the copper status and negatively affected hepatic TXNRD activity. We conclude that there is a hitherto unknown interrelationship between copper and selenium status, and that copper negatively affects selenoprotein expression and activity most probably via limiting UGA recoding. This interference may be of physiological relevance during aging, where a particular shift in the selenium to copper ratio has been reported. An increased concentration of copper in face of a downregulated selenoprotein expression may synergize and negatively affect the cellular redox homeostasis contributing to disease processes.

Effects of a Cumulative, Suboptimal Supply of Multiple Trace Elements in Mice: Trace Element Status, Genomic Stability, Inflammation, and Epigenetics

SCOPE

Trace element (TE) deficiencies often occur accumulated, as nutritional intake is inadequate for several TEs, concurrently. Therefore, the impact of a suboptimal supply of iron, zinc, copper, iodine, and selenium on the TE status, health parameters, epigenetics, and genomic stability in mice are studied.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Male mice receive reduced or adequate amounts of TEs for 9 weeks. The TE status is analyzed mass-spectrometrically in serum and different tissues. Furthermore, gene and protein expression of TE biomarkers are assessed with focus on liver. Iron concentrations are most sensitive toward a reduced supply indicated by increased serum transferrin levels and altered hepatic expression of iron-related genes. Reduced TE supply results in smaller weight gain but higher spleen and heart weights. Additionally, inflammatory mediators in serum and liver are increased together with hepatic genomic instability. However, global DNA (hydroxy)methylation is unaffected by the TE modulation.

CONCLUSION

Despite homeostatic regulation of most TEs in response to a low intake, this condition still has substantial effects on health parameters. It appears that the liver and immune system react particularly sensitive toward changes in TE intake. The reduced Fe status might be the primary driver for the observed effects.

Changes in copper, zinc and cadmium distributions in the liver of Formosan squirrels with characteristic high copper accumulation

We discovered previously that Formosan squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) accumulate copper (Cu) in their livers at levels averaging 1700 μg per dry g (approximately 420 μg per wet g). In the current study, we investigated the relationship between Cu accumulation and hepatic injury, and we determined the distribution and chemical form of Cu in the liver supernatant. In particular, we explored the role of metallothionein in the liver supernatant. We observed no significant differences in hepatic Cu concentration between squirrels that showed pathological changes in the liver and those that did not. Serum alanine aminotransferase activity did not increase with increasing hepatic Cu concentration. These results suggest that abnormal Cu accumulation in the livers of Formosan squirrels does not induce severe hepatic injury. We found that 26.7% of the Cu in the liver was distributed to the supernatant, and only 11.0% of the Cu in the liver was bound to metallothionein, suggesting that metallothionein in the hepatic supernatant does not contribute to detoxification of excess Cu in Formosan squirrels.

Evaluation of copper metabolism in neonatal rats by speciation analysis using liquid chromatography hyphenated to ICP mass spectrometry

It is known that copper (Cu) is highly accumulated in several organs in the perinatal period, suggesting changes in Cu metabolism with development, although the precise mechanisms are still unclear. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying Cu accumulation in the organs of neonatal rats, we performed speciation analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography hyphenated to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. In the neonatal rat liver immediately after birth, the Cu concentration was elevated 10-fold compared to that in the juvenile rat liver. Most of the accumulated Cu was bound to metallothionein, although Cu in Cu, zinc-superoxide dismutase (SOD) was reduced. Contrary to the hepatic Cu accumulation, the serum Cu concentrations in the neonatal rats were low due to the decreased amount of Cu bound to ceruloplasmin. The mRNA expression of antioxidant protein 1 (Atox1), a Cu chaperone that transports Cu to Atp7b, remained low up to two weeks after birth. These results suggest that Cu accumulation in the neonatal rat liver is caused by the low expression of Atox1, and the accumulation is useful to distribute Cu to Cu-containing anti-oxidative enzymes (e.g., SOD and Atox1) after respiration starts.

The pathways and domain specificity of Cu(i) binding to human metallothionein 1A

We describe the sequential formation of 3 key Cu(i)–thiolate clusters in human metallothionein 1A using a combination of ESI-MS and phosphorescence lifetime methods.

Copper exposure alters the metabolism of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus submitted to osmotic shock

Copper (Cu) is an essential metal capable to alter many metabolic and physiological processes in animal species, depending on the environmental concentration and salinity. The present study evaluated the effects of Cu exposure on the metabolism of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus under different osmotic situations. Crabs were acclimated at two different salinities conditions (30 and 2). Subsequently, they were exposed to Cu during 96 h at each salinity and under hypo-osmotic shock. Results demonstrated that Cu exposure increased whole-body oxygen consumption. In addition, the activity of LDH decreased while citrate synthase increased in anterior gills from animals submitted to hypo-osmotic shock. This scenario indicates extra stress caused by sudden environmental osmotic changes, as commonly observed in estuarine environments, when combined with copper exposure. Therefore, the activity of LDH and citrate synthase enzymes might be sensitive indicators for aquatic toxicology studies approaching Cu contamination in estuarine environments.

Copper physiology in ruminants: trafficking of systemic copper, adaptations to variation in nutritional supply and thiomolybdate challenge

Ruminants are recognised to suffer from Cu-responsive disorders. Present understanding of Cu transport and metabolism is limited and inconsistent across vets and veterinary professionals. There has been much progress from the studies of the 1980s and early 1990s in cellular Cu transport and liver metabolism which has not been translated into agricultural practice. Cu metabolism operates in regulated pathways of Cu trafficking rather than in pools of Cu lability. Cu in the cell is chaperoned to enzyme production, retention within metallothionein or excretion via the Golgi into the blood. The hepatocyte differs in that Cu-containing caeruloplasmin can be synthesised to provide systemic Cu supply and excess Cu is excreted via bile. The aim of the present review is to improve understanding and highlight the relevant progress in relation to ruminants through the translation of newer findings from medicine and non-ruminant animal models into ruminants.

Could Alzheimer's Disease Originate in the Periphery and If So How So?

The classical amyloid cascade model for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been challenged by several findings. Here, an alternative molecular neurobiological model is proposed. It is shown that the presence of the APOE ε4 allele, altered miRNA expression and epigenetic dysregulation in the promoter region and exon 1 of TREM2, as well as ANK1 hypermethylation and altered levels of histone post-translational methylation leading to increased transcription of TNFA, could variously explain increased levels of peripheral and central inflammation found in AD. In particular, as a result of increased activity of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM-2), the presence of the apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) isoform, and changes in ANK1 expression, with subsequent changes in miR-486 leading to altered levels of protein kinase B (Akt), mechanistic (previously mammalian) target of rapamycin (mTOR) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), all of which play major roles in microglial activation, proliferation and survival, there is activation of microglia, leading to the subsequent (further) production of cytokines, chemokines, nitric oxide, prostaglandins, reactive oxygen species, inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, and other mediators of inflammation and neurotoxicity. These changes are associated with the development of amyloid and tau pathology, mitochondrial dysfunction (including impaired activity of the electron transport chain, depleted basal mitochondrial potential and oxidative damage to key tricarboxylic acid enzymes), synaptic dysfunction, altered glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) activity, mTOR activation, impairment of autophagy, compromised ubiquitin-proteasome system, iron dyshomeostasis, changes in APP translation, amyloid plaque formation, tau hyperphosphorylation and neurofibrillary tangle formation.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension and the potential roles of metallothioneins: A focused review

The pathophysiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is underlined by cell proliferation and vasoconstriction of pulmonary arterioles this involves multiple molecular factors or proteins, but it is not clear what the exact roles of these factors/proteins are. In addition, there may be other factors/proteins that have not been identified that contribute to PAH pathophysiology. Therefore, research has focused on investigating novel role players, in order to facilitate a better understanding of how PAH develop. Evidence suggest that mitochondrial regulators are key role players in PAH pathophysiology, but regulators that have not received sufficient attention in PAH are metallothioneins (MTs). In PAH patients, MT expression is elevated compared to healthy individuals, suggesting that MTs may be possible biomarkers. In other disease-models, MTs have been shown to regulate cell proliferation and vasoconstriction, processes that are instrumental in PAH pathophysiology. Due to the involvement of these processes in PAH pathophysiology and the ability of MTs to modulate them, this paper propose that cellular MTs may also play a role in PAH development. This paper suggests that PAH-research should perhaps begin to investigate the involvement of cellular MTs in the development of PAH.

The six metal binding domains in human copper transporter, ATP7B: molecular biophysics and disease-causing mutations

Wilson Disease (WD) is a hereditary genetic disorder, which coincides with a dysfunctional copper (Cu) metabolism caused by mutations in ATP7B, a membrane-bound P1B-type ATPase responsible for Cu export from hepatic cells. The N-terminal part (~ 600 residues) of the multi-domain 1400-residue ATP7B constitutes six metal binding domains (MBDs), each of which can bind a copper ion, interact with other ATP7B domains as well as with different proteins. Although the ATP7B's MBDs have been investigated in vitro and in vivo intensively, it remains unclear how these domains modulate overall structure, dynamics, stability and function of ATP7B. The presence of six MBDs is unique to mammalian ATP7B homologs, and many WD causing missense mutations are found in these domains. Here, we have summarized previously reported in vitro biophysical data on the MBDs of ATP7B and WD point mutations located in these domains. Besides the demonstration of where the research field stands today, this review showcasts the need for further biophysical investigation about the roles of MBDs in ATP7B function. Molecular mechanisms of ATP7B are important not only in the development of new WD treatment but also for other aspects of human physiology where Cu transport plays a role.

Identification of Ceruloplasmin as a Gene that Affects Susceptibility to Glomerulonephritis Through Macrophage Function

Crescentic glomerulonephritis (Crgn) is a complex disorder where macrophage activity and infiltration are significant effector causes. In previous linkage studies using the uniquely susceptible Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rat strain, we have identified multiple crescentic glomerulonephritis QTL (Crgn) and positionally cloned genes underlying Crgn1 and Crgn2, which accounted for 40% of total variance in glomerular inflammation. Here, we have generated a backcross (BC) population (n = 166) where Crgn1 and Crgn2 were genetically fixed and found significant linkage to glomerular crescents on chromosome 2 (Crgn8, LOD = 3.8). Fine mapping analysis by integration with genome-wide expression QTLs (eQTLs) from the same BC population identified ceruloplasmin (Cp) as a positional eQTL in macrophages but not in serum. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry confirmed Cp as a protein QTL in rat macrophages. WKY macrophages overexpress Cp and its downregulation by RNA interference decreases markers of glomerular proinflammatory macrophage activation. Similarly, short incubation with Cp results in a strain-dependent macrophage polarization in the rat. These results suggest that genetically determined Cp levels can alter susceptibility to Crgn through macrophage function and propose a new role for Cp in early macrophage activation.

Expression System Based on an MTIIa Promoter to Produce hPSA in Mammalian Cell Cultures

Because of the limitations of standard culture techniques, the development of new recombinant protein expression systems with biotechnological potential is a key challenge. Ideally, such systems should be able to effectively and accurately synthesize a protein of interest with intrinsic metabolic capacity. Here, we describe such a system that was designed based on a plasmid vector containing promoter elements derived from the metallothionein MTIIa promoter, as well as processing and purification elements. This promoter can be induced by heavy metals in a culture medium to induce the synthesis of human prostate-specific antigen (hPSA), which has been modified to insert elements for purification, proteolysis, and secretion. We optimized hPSA production in this system by comparing the effects and contributions of ZnCl₂, CdCl₂, and CuSO₄ in HEK293FT, HeLa, BHK-21, and CHO-K1 cells. We also compared the effectiveness of three different transfection agents: multi-walled carbon nanotubes, Lipofectamine 2000, and X-tremeGENE HP Reagent. hPSA production was confirmed via the detection of enhanced green fluorescent protein fluorescence, and cell viability was determined. The expression of hPSA was compared with that of the native protein produced by LNCaP cells, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. X-tremeGENE reagent, the BHK-21 cell line, and CuSO₄ showed the highest hPSA production rates. Furthermore, BHK-21 cells were more resistant to the oxidative stress caused by 100 μM CuSO₄. These results suggest that the proposed optimized inducible expression system can effectively produce recombinant proteins with desired characteristics for a wide range of applications in molecular biology.

Metallothioneins 1 and 2, but not 3, are regulated by nutritional status in rat white adipose tissue

Background

Cumulating evidence underlines the role of adipose tissue metallothionein (MT) in the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Fasting/refeeding was shown to affect MT gene expression in the rodent liver. The influence of nutritional status on MT gene expression in white adipose tissue (WAT) is inconclusive. The aim of this study was to verify if fasting and fasting/refeeding may influence expression of MT genes in WAT of rats.

Results

Fasting resulted in a significant increase in MT1 and MT2 gene expressions in retroperitoneal, epididymal, and inguinal WAT of rats, and this effect was reversed by refeeding. Altered expressions of MT1 and MT2 genes in all main fat depots were reflected by changes in serum MT1 and MT2 levels. MT1 and MT2 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels in WAT correlated inversely with serum insulin concentration. Changes in MT1 and MT2 mRNA levels were apparently not related to total zinc concentrations and MTF1 and Zn transporter mRNA levels in WAT. Fasting or fasting/refeeding exerted no effect on the expression of MT3 gene in WAT. Addition of insulin to isolated adipocytes resulted in a significant decrease in MT1 and MT2 gene expressions. In contrast, forskolin or dibutyryl-cAMP (dB-cAMP) enhanced the expressions of MT1 and MT2 genes in isolated adipocytes. Insulin partially reversed the effect of dB-cAMP on MT1 and MT2 gene expressions.

Conclusions

This study showed that the expressions of MT1 and MT2 genes in WAT are regulated by nutritional status, and the regulation may be independent of total zinc concentration.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12263-016-0533-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Oxidation of the N-terminal domain of the wheat metallothionein Ec -1 leads to the formation of three distinct disulfide bridges

Metallothioneins (MTs) are low molecular weight proteins, characterized by a high cysteine content and the ability to coordinate large amounts of d(10) metal ions, for example, Zn(II), Cd(II), and Cu(I), in form of metal-thiolate clusters. Depending on intracellular conditions such as redox potential or metal ion concentrations, MTs can occur in various states ranging from the fully metal-loaded holo- to the metal-free apo-form. The Cys thiolate groups in the apo-form can be either reduced or be involved in disulfide bridges. Although oxidation-mediated Zn(II) release might be a possible mechanism for the regulation of Zn(II) availability by MTs, no concise information regarding the associated pathways and the structure of oxidized apo-MT forms is available. Using the well-studied Zn2 γ-Ec -1 domain of the wheat Zn6 Ec -1 MT we attempt here to answer several question regarding the structure and biophysical properties of oxidized MT forms, such as: (1) does disulfide bond formation increase the stability against proteolysis, (2) is the overall peptide backbone fold similar for the holo- and the oxidized apo-MT form, and (3) are disulfide bridges specifically or randomly formed? Our investigations show that oxidation leads to three distinct disulfide bridges independently of the applied oxidation conditions and of the initial species used for oxidation, that is, the apo- or the holo-form. In addition, the oxidized apo-form is as stable against proteolysis as Zn2 γ-Ec -1, rendering the currently assumed degradation of oxidized MTs unlikely and suggesting a role of the oxidation process for the extension of protein lifetime in absence of sufficient amounts of metal ions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 106: 295-308, 2016.

Localization and Spectroscopic Analysis of the Cu(I) Binding Site in Wheat Metallothionein Ec-1

The early cysteine-labeled metallothionein (MT) from Triticum aestivum (common wheat), denoted Ec-1, features two structurally well-defined domains, γ and βE, coordinating two and four Zn(II) ions, respectively. While the protein is currently assumed to function mainly in zinc homeostasis, a low amount of copper ions was also recently detected in a native Ec-1 sample. To evaluate the observed copper binding in more detail, the recombinant Zn₆Ec-1 form was exposed to different amounts of Cu(I) ions and the resulting species characterized with spectroscopic methods. Data reveal that the first Cu(I) equivalent coordinates exclusively to the N-terminal γ-domain of the protein and replaces one Zn(II) ion. To analyze the ability of the γ-domain for coordination of monovalent metal ions in more detail, the γ-Ec-1 peptide fragment was incubated with increasing amounts of Cu(I) and the process monitored with UV-VIS, circular dichroism, and luminescence spectroscopy. Closely similar spectra are observed regardless if the apo- or the metal ion-loaded and, hence, pre-folded forms, were used for the titration experiments with Cu(I). The results indicate that low amounts of Cu(I) ions displace the two metal ions subsequently and stoichiometrically, despite the different coordination geometry requirements of Cu(I) and Zn(II).

ATOX1 gene silencing increases susceptibility to anticancer therapy based on copper ionophores or chelating drugs

Copper is a catalytic cofactor required for the normal function of many enzymes involved in fundamental biological processes but highly cytotoxic when in excess. Therefore its homeostasis and distribution is strictly regulated by a network of transporters and intracellular chaperones. ATOX1 (antioxidant protein 1) is a copper chaperone that plays a role in copper homeostasis by binding and transporting cytosolic copper to ATPase proteins in the trans-Golgi network. In the present study the Caco-2 cell line, a colon carcinoma cell line, was used as an in vitro model to evaluate if ATOX1 deficiency could affect sensitivity to experimentally induced copper dyshomeostasis. Silencing of ATOX1 increased toxicity of a short treatment with a high concentration of Cu(2+). Copper ionophores, such as 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinoline, induced a copper-dependent cell toxicity which was significantly potentiated after ATOX1 silencing. The copper chelator TPEN (N,N,N',N'-tetrakis (2-pyridylmethyl) ethylenediamine) produced a form of cell toxicity that was reversed by the addition of Cu(2+). ATOX1 silencing increased Caco-2 cell sensitivity to TPEN toxicity. Our results suggest the possibility of a therapy with copper-chelating or ionophore drugs in subtypes of tumors showing specific alterations in ATOX1 expression.

Genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of copper oxychloride in cultured human lymphocytes using cytogenetic and molecular tests

The genotoxicity of copper oxychloride was investigated in human lymphocytes using chromosome aberration (CA) and micronucleus (MN) tests and the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction technique. The lymphocytes were treated with 3, 6, and 12 µg/mL of copper oxychloride for 24 and 48 h. Copper oxychloride increased CA and abnormal cells in a dose-dependent manner. The frequency of MN and micronucleated binuclear cells also increased at all concentrations and treatment periods. However, copper oxychloride cytotoxicity, observed through lower mitotic and nuclear division index, was significantly lower only at the higher concentrations (6 and 12 µg/mL). Copper oxychloride increased the polymorphic bands and decreased genomic template stability. In conclusion, in this study it was confirmed that copper oxychloride has genotoxic potential for human lymphocytes in vitro. Additionally, caution is advised for its use as a fungicide, because it may increase the risk of exposure through the food chain.

Metal and metallothionein distribution in different tissues of the Mediterranean clam Venerupis philippinarum during copper treatment and detoxification

Filter feeding animals can accumulate large amount of contaminants in their body through particles filtered from seawater. In particular, copper is interesting since it plays important roles as co-factor of numerous proteins but its toxicity is well established, also because it can readily generate free radicals or oxidize cellular components through their redox activity. Its availability is tightly regulated within cells: it is immediately transferred to metallothionein (MT) that in turn provides efficient and specific mechanisms for its intracellular storage and transport. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of sublethal copper concentrations in Venerupis philippinarum, by studying the kinetics of copper, zinc (for its interactions at the sites of intake or elimination with the accumulation of other essential and not essential trace metals) and metallothionein accumulation under laboratory conditions. The time-course of metal accumulation/elimination is similar in digestive gland and gills and importantly it is dose-dependent. Both copper and zinc increase slowly within cells, reaching a maximum concentration at the end of the exposure period. During the detoxification period, the metal levels in digestive gland and gills rapidly decrease, with different kinetics in the two tissues. Positive correlations between metallothionein accumulation and copper or zinc concentrations have been verified in both treated groups. The obtained data demonstrated the involvement of MTs in detoxification strategies after a recovery period in clean seawater.

Age-dependent increase of brain copper levels and expressions of copper regulatory proteins in the subventricular zone and choroid plexus

Our recent data suggest a high accumulation of copper (Cu) in the subventricular zone (SVZ) along the wall of brain ventricles. Anatomically, SVZ is in direct contact with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is secreted by a neighboring tissue choroid plexus (CP). Changes in Cu regulatory gene expressions in the SVZ and CP as the function of aging may determine Cu levels in the CSF and SVZ. This study was designed to investigate the associations between age, Cu levels, and Cu regulatory genes in SVZ and plexus. The SVZ and CP were dissected from brains of 3-week, 10-week, or 9-month old male rats. Analyses by atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that the SVZ of adult and old animals contained the highest Cu level compared with other tested brain regions. Significantly positive correlations between age and Cu levels in SVZ and plexus were observed; the SVZ Cu level of old animals was 7.5- and 5.8-fold higher than those of young and adult rats (p < 0.01), respectively. Quantitation by qPCR of the transcriptional expressions of Cu regulatory proteins showed that the SVZ expressed the highest level of Cu storage protein metallothioneins (MTs), while the CP expressed the high level of Cu transporter protein Ctr1. Noticeably, Cu levels in the SVZ were positively associated with type B slow proliferating cell marker Gfap (p < 0.05), but inversely associated with type A proliferating neuroblast marker Dcx (p < 0.05) and type C transit amplifying progenitor marker Nestin (p < 0.01). Dmt1 had significant positive correlations with age and Cu levels in the plexus (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that Cu levels in all tested brain regions are increased as the function of age. The SVZ shows a different expression pattern of Cu-regulatory genes from the CP. The age-related increase of MTs and decrease of Ctr1 may contribute to the high Cu level in this neurogenesis active brain region.

Iron and copper in male reproduction: a double-edged sword

Iron and copper are essential trace nutrients playing important roles in general health and fertility. However, both elements are highly toxic when accumulating in large quantities. Their direct or indirect impact on the structure and function of male gonads and gametes is not completely understood yet. Excess or deficiency of either element may lead to defective spermatogenesis, reduced libido, and oxidative damage to the testicular tissue and spermatozoa, ultimately leading to fertility impairment. This review will detail the complex information currently available on the dual roles iron and copper play in male reproduction.

Transcriptomic response of the hydrothermal mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus in experimental exposure to heavy metals is modulated by the Pgm genotype and symbiont content

Hydrothermal vent mussels belonging to the genus Bathymodiolus dominate communities at hydrothermal sites of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus harbors thiotrophic and methanotrophic symbiotic bacteria in its gills and evolves in naturally highly metal contaminated environments. In the context of investigations on metal tolerance/effect in B. azoricus, we focused our work on the short-term adaptive response (15days) of mussels to different metals exposure at a molecular level using metal concentrations chosen to mimic natural situations at three vents sites. The expression of a set of 38 genes involved in different steps of the metal uptake, detoxication and various metabolisms was analysed by qPCR. Mussels were also genotyped at 10 enzyme loci to explore the relationships among natural genetic variation and gene expression. Relation between symbiont content (both sulfur-oxidizing and methanogen bacteria) and gene expression was also analysed. Our study demonstrated the influence of metal cocktail composition and time exposure on the transcriptome regulation with a specific pattern of regulation observed for the three metal cocktail tested. We also evidenced the significant influence of some specific Pgm genotype on the global gene expression in our experimental populations and a general trend of a higher gene expression in individuals carrying a high symbiont content.

The regulation of copper stress response genes in the polychaete Nereis diversicolor during prolonged extreme copper contamination

Polychaetes are frequented in toxicological studies, one reason being that some members occupy shallow burrows in sediments and are maximally exposed to the contaminants that accumulate within them. We have been studying one population of the polychaete Nereis (Hediste) diversicolor exhibiting inheritable tolerance to extreme copper contamination in estuarine sediment. Using transcriptome sequencing data we have identified a suite of genes with putative roles in metal detoxification and tolerance, and measured their regulation. Copper tolerant individuals display significantly different gene expression profiles compared to animals from a nearby population living without remarkable copper levels. Gene transcripts encoding principle copper homeostasis proteins including membrane copper ion transporters, copper ion chaperones and putative metallothionein-like proteins were significantly more abundant in tolerant animals occupying contaminated sediment. In contrast, those encoding antioxidants and cellular repair pathways were unchanged. Nontolerant animals living in contaminated sediment showed no difference in copper homeostasis-related gene expression but did have significantly elevated levels of mRNAs encoding Glutathione Peroxidase enzymes. This study represents the first use of functional genomics to investigate the copper tolerance trait in this species and provides insight into the mechanism used by these individuals to survive and flourish in conditions which are lethal to their conspecifics.

Oxidative stress biomarkers and metallothionein in Folsomia candida--responses to Cu and Cd

Folsomia candida (Collembola) is a standard soil ecotoxicological species; effect assessment includes survival and reproduction as endpoints. In the present study, and for the first time, a range of oxidative stress biomarkers measurement was optimized and validated. The antioxidant capacity was measured by the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and content of total glutathione (TG). The oxidative damage in the lipid membranes was estimated by lipid peroxidation (LPO) and metallothionein (MT) levels. The exposure included the essential and non-essential metals Cu and Cd, in LUFA 2.2 natural standard soil, using a series of sampling times along a 10 days period (0, 2, 4, 6 and 10 days). Exposure concentrations were selected based on their reproduction EC50 values, 60 and 1000 mg/kg soil DW, for Cd and Cu respectively. The protocols were optimized and results show that oxidative stress biomarkers can be successfully used in F. candida, this being highly relevant as complementary information to the mechanistic level. The selected sampling times gave a good indication of the markers dynamic and can be reduced/adapted in future testing. Results showed that both metals caused an increase in the MT levels after 6 days but Cd acted as a stronger oxidant agent compared to Cu, i.e. causing higher damage. In sum, Cd mobilized/activated more antioxidant enzymes, but the increased activities were not enough to prevent LPO. This study confirms that the oxidative stress caused by Cd is higher despite the use of same reproduction EC50 indicating that toxicity seems more reversible for Cu than for Cd. Among others, GST and MT would be a good selection of biomarkers for Cd effect.

Micronutrient-gene interactions related to inflammatory/immune response and antioxidant activity in ageing and inflammation. A systematic review

Recent longitudinal studies in dietary daily intake in human centenarians have shown that a satisfactory content of some micronutrients within the cells maintain several immune functions, a low grade of inflammation and preserve antioxidant activity. Micronutrients (zinc, copper, selenium) play a pivotal role in maintaining and reinforcing the performances of the immune and antioxidant systems as well as in affecting the complex network of the genes (nutrigenomic) with anti- and pro-inflammatory tasks. Genes of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and some key regulators of trace elements homeostasis, such as Metallothioneins (MT), are involved in the susceptibility to major geriatric disease/disorders. Moreover, the genetic inter-individual variability may affect the nutrients' absorption (nutrigenetic) with altered effects on inflammatory/immune response and antioxidant activity. The interaction between genetic factors and micronutrients (nutrigenomic and nutrigenetic approaches) may influence ageing and longevity because the micronutrients may become also toxic. This review reports the micronutrient-gene interactions in ageing and their impact on the healthy state with a focus on the method of protein-metal speciation analysis. The association between micronutrient-gene interactions and the protein-metal speciation analysis can give a complete picture for a personalized nutrient supplementation or chelation in order to reach healthy ageing and longevity.

Copper stabilizes the Menkes copper-transporting ATPase (Atp7a) protein expressed in rat intestinal epithelial cells

Iron deficiency decreases oxygen tension in the intestinal mucosa, leading to stabilization of hypoxia-inducible transcription factor 2α (Hif2α) and subsequent upregulation of genes involved in iron transport [e.g., divalent metal transporter (Dmt1) and ferroportin 1 (Fpn1)]. Iron deprivation also alters copper homeostasis, reflected by copper accumulation in the intestinal epithelium and induction of an intracellular copper-binding protein [metallothionein (Mt)] and a copper exporter [Menkes copper ATPase (Atp7a)]. Importantly, Atp7a is also a Hif2α target. It was, however, previously noted that Atp7a protein expression was induced more strongly than mRNA in the duodenum of iron-deprived rats, suggesting additional regulatory mechanisms. The current study was thus designed to decipher mechanistic aspects of Atp7a regulation during iron deprivation using an established in vitro model of the mammalian intestine, rat intestinal epithelial (IEC-6) cells. Cells were treated with an iron chelator and/or copper loaded to mimic the in vivo situation. IEC-6 cells exposed to copper showed a dose-dependent increase in Mt expression, confirming intracellular copper accumulation. Iron chelation with copper loading increased Atp7a mRNA and protein levels; however, contrary to our expectation, copper alone increased only protein levels. This suggested that copper increased Atp7a protein levels by a posttranscriptional regulatory mechanism. Therefore, to determine if Atp7a protein stability was affected, the translation inhibitor cycloheximide was utilized. Experiments in IEC-6 cells revealed that the half-life of the Atp7a protein was ~41 h and, furthermore, that intracellular copper accumulation increased steady-state Atp7a protein levels. This investigation thus reveals a novel mechanism of Atp7a regulation in which copper stabilizes the protein, possibly complementing Hif2α-mediated transcriptional induction during iron deficiency.

Variable response of selected cuproproteins in rat choroid plexus and cerebellum following perinatal copper deficiency

Recent immunohistochemical characterization of the copper transport protein, Ctr1, reported enriched levels in mouse choroid plexus, and enhancement by copper deficiency. To extend and confirm this, experiments were conducted with Holtzman rats. Following perinatal copper deficiency there was an 80% reduction in brain copper of 24-27 day old copper-deficient (Cu-) rat pups compared to copper-adequate (Cu+) controls. Choroid plexus immunoblot analysis with rabbit anti-hCtr1 demonstrated a 50% higher Ctr1 protein expression in Cu-samples. However, levels of copper chaperone for superoxide dismutase (CCS) were unchanged, suggesting that Ctr1 buffers the choroid plexus against copper deficiency, since CCS normally is much higher in Cu-tissues. There were 13% lower levels of cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV (COX IV) detected in Cuchoroid plexus. In contrast, in cerebellum of Cu-rats CCS was 2-fold higher and COXIV 1.7-fold lower than Cu+ rats consistent with severe copper deficiency. Brain mitochondria from Cu-rats had severe reductions in COXIV content and CCO activity and modest but significant elevations in CCS and reductions in Cu, Zn-superoxide dismutase. COXIV may be a more sensitive marker for copper deficiency than CCS and may prove useful to assess copper status.

Functional partnership of the copper export machinery and glutathione balance in human cells

Cells use the redox properties of copper in numerous physiologic processes, including antioxidant defense, neurotransmitter biosynthesis, and angiogenesis. Copper delivery to the secretory pathway is an essential step in copper utilization and homeostatic maintenance. We demonstrate that the glutathione/glutathione disulfide (GSH/GSSG) pair controls the copper transport pathway by regulating the redox state of a copper chaperone Atox1. GSSG oxidizes copper-coordinating cysteines of Atox1 with the formation of an intramolecular disulfide. GSH alone is sufficient to reduce the disulfide, restoring the ability of Atox1 to bind copper; glutaredoxin 1 facilitates this reaction when GSH is low. In cells, high GSH both reduces Atox1 and is required for cell viability in the absence of Atox1. In turn, Atox1, which has a redox potential similar to that of glutaredoxin, becomes essential for cell survival when GSH levels decrease. Atox1(+/+) cells resist short term glutathione depletion, whereas Atox1(-/-) cells under the same conditions are not viable. We conclude that GSH balance and copper homeostasis are functionally linked and jointly maintain conditions for copper secretion and cell proliferation.

Micronutrient (Zn, Cu, Fe)-gene interactions in ageing and inflammatory age-related diseases: implications for treatments

In ageing, alterations in inflammatory/immune response and antioxidant capacity lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and loss of mobility and agility. Various essential micronutrients in the diet are involved in age-altered biological functions. Micronutrients (zinc, copper, iron) play a pivotal role either in maintaining and reinforcing the immune and antioxidant performances or in affecting the complex network of genes (nutrigenomic approach) involved in encoding proteins for a correct inflammatory/immune response. By the other side, the genetic inter-individual variability may affect the absorption and uptake of the micronutrients (nutrigenetic approach) with subsequent altered effects on inflammatory/immune response and antioxidant activity. Therefore, the individual micronutrient-gene interactions are fundamental to achieve healthy ageing. In this review, we report and discuss the role of micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe)-gene interactions in relation to the inflammatory status and the possibility of a supplement in the event of a micronutrient deficiency or chelation in presence of micronutrient overload in relation to specific polymorphisms of inflammatory proteins or proteins related of the delivery of the micronutriemts to various organs and tissues. In this last context, we report the protein-metal speciation analysis in order to have, coupled with micronutrient-gene interactions, a more complete picture of the individual need in micronutrient supplementation or chelation to achieve healthy ageing and longevity.

Charting the travels of copper in eukaryotes from yeast to mammals

Throughout evolution, all organisms have harnessed the redox properties of copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) as a cofactor or structural determinant of proteins that perform critical functions in biology. At its most sobering stance to Earth's biome, Cu biochemistry allows photosynthetic organisms to harness solar energy and convert it into the organic energy that sustains the existence of all nonphotosynthetic life forms. The conversion of organic energy, in the form of nutrients that include carbohydrates, amino acids and fatty acids, is subsequently released during cellular respiration, itself a Cu-dependent process, and stored as ATP that is used to drive a myriad of critical biological processes such as enzyme-catalyzed biosynthetic processes, transport of cargo around cells and across membranes, and protein degradation. The life-supporting properties of Cu incur a significant challenge to cells that must not only exquisitely balance intracellular Cu concentrations, but also chaperone this redox-active metal from its point of cellular entry to its ultimate destination so as to avert the potential for inappropriate biochemical interactions or generation of damaging reactive oxidative species (ROS). In this review we chart the travels of Cu from the extracellular milieu of fungal and mammalian cells, its path within the cytosol as inferred by the proteins and ligands that escort and deliver Cu to intracellular organelles and protein targets, and its journey throughout the body of mammals. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cell Biology of Metals.

Copper and homocysteine in cardiovascular diseases

High blood copper (Cu) and homocysteine (Hcy) concentrations have been independently reported as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. When they are simultaneously measured, a concomitant increase in both parameters in association with vascular dysfunction has been observed. Cu chelator penicillamine can significantly diminish the inhibitory effect of Hcy on endothelial function, which has led to the interpretation that Cu mediates the deleterious effect of Hcy. However, Cu itself has been shown to be beneficial to the cardiovascular system. In particular, Cu promotion of angiogenesis has been well documented. Cu stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and differentiation and promotes microtubule formation in cultured saphenous veins. High levels of Hcy do not affect the process of microtubule formation, but the combination of Cu and Hcy leads to a significant inhibitory effect. Under other conditions, Cu does not affect, but Hcy inhibits, the endothelium-dependent relaxation of blood vessels and the combination of both augments the inhibition. Why does Cu produce adverse effects when it co-exists with Hcy? Cu forms complexes with Hcy and the Cu-Hcy complexes possess a deleterious potential due to their redox properties. Cu chelation can remove Cu from the Cu-Hcy complexes, but leaves behind high levels of Hcy and produces Cu deficiency. An alternative approach should focus on the reduction of Hcy, but maintenance of Cu, making detrimental Cu beneficial. A comprehensive understanding of Cu speciation and a development of selective modulation of Cu coordination to Cu-binding molecules to avoid Cu-Hcy complex formation would effectively improve the condition of cardiovascular disease.

Trace elements and metallothionein in liver and kidney of Felis catus

Trace metals such as Zn, Cu, and Fe are essential for life; differently, no biochemical function is known for Cd. Changes in dietary metal concentrations can cause deficiency or toxicity. Studies on trace elements in cat are lacking. This paper aimed to analyze Zn, Cu, Fe and Cd concentrations in liver and kidney of pathological domestic cat and to isolate metallothionein (MT) in these tissues. It was not possible to explore a possible correlation between metal concentrations and pathologies because the incidence for each of them was too low. Fe was the most abundant metal; in particular, the liver accumulates average Fe concentrations one order of magnitude higher than Zn and Cu, ranging from 66.75 and 1,444.23 microg/g. Significantly, higher levels of Fe were found in the liver of elder animals. Zn concentrations varied between 26.31 and 84.78 microg/g in the liver whereas in the kidney, ranged between 7.69 and 71.15 microg/g. Cu concentrations were between 2.37 and 112.91 microg/g in liver and between 2.12 and 9.85 microg/g in kidney. Cd was the least abundant metal with the exception of the kidney of the oldest cats where it reached a maximum of 13.71 microg/g. Gel-filtration metal distribution profiles from cytosolic extracts revealed the presence of Cd, Cu, Zn thioneins either in the liver or in the kidney. Because tissue samples were taken from pathological cats from different breed and age, care must be taken to use these data as a baseline profile of trace elements in healthy animals. Our results are indicative that for some specimens the feed levels of Fe and Cu could be higher than the optimal dietary intake and in few cats, there was also an exposure to Cd that was counteracted by MT biosynthesis.

In vivo evaluation of oxidative stress biomarkers in the land snail, Theba pisana exposed to copper-based pesticides

The in vivo evaluation of oxidative stress biomarkers in the digestive gland of Theba pisana exposed to sublethal doses (40% and 80% of LD(50) after 48 h) of copper-based pesticides; copper oxychloride, copper hydroxide and copper sulphate was examined. Oxidative individual perturbations were assessed by measuring non-enzymatic (glutathione; GSH) and enzymatic (catalase; CAT, glutathione peroxidase; GPx and glutathione S-transferase; GST) antioxidants in digestive gland of the snails. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) was also evaluated as marker of cell damage. The results indicated that copper sulphate was the most potent compound against this snail followed by copper hydroxide and copper oxychloride where their corresponding LD(50) values were 26.54, 334.54 and 582.18 microg snail(-1), respectively. Copper-based compounds resulted in a significant increase in the level of LPO whereas a significant decline of GSH content in the digestive gland of snails was observed when compared with untreated controls. The CAT, GPx and GST activities of treated snails were significantly higher than those of untreated controls. In general, the activation power of these compounds was in the following order: copper sulphate > copper hydroxide > copper oxychloride. This study suggests that up-regulation of the antioxidant enzyme activities, elevation of LPO and the reduction of GSH content is related to oxidative stress in this species that they could be used as potential biomarkers of copper-based pesticides exposure.