Copper and zinc in stage I multiple myeloma: relation with ceruloplasmin, lipid peroxidation, and superoxide dismutase activity

Abstract

Background The main aim of this study was to assess the serum levels of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) with lipid peroxidation, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) activity, and ceruloplasmin (Cp) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Materials and methods The study was conducted in 34 MM patients at stage I. Serum Cu and Zn levels were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Also, spectrophotometric assays of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in addition to Cp and Cu/Zn SOD were quantitated. Results The results showed a significant decrease in the serum Zn levels in patients with MM (p < 0.0001). Also, serum Cu levels were significantly higher (p < 0.0001). However, the serum Cu/Zn ratio was significantly higher in the cancer patients (p < 0.0001). A significant difference was observed in the patients group compared with the control group according to the Cu/Zn SOD activity (p < 0.0001). Moreover, serum levels of Cp and MDA were significantly increased in patients (p < 0.0001, both). Conclusions The elevated levels of serum Cu and MDA with a decrease in Zn and Cu/Zn SOD might explain the increased oxidative stress in MM disease. As the high Cu level was observed in MM patients, therefore, Cu levels should be concentrated in the pathogenesis and progression of MM disease.