Abstract
A new original copper nanocomposite based on poly-N-vinylimidazole was synthesized and characterized by a complex of modern physicochemical and biological methods. The low cytotoxicity of the copper nanocomposite in relation to the cultured hepatocyte cells was found. The possibility to involve the copper from the nanocomposite in the functioning of the copper-dependent enzyme systems was evaluated during the incubation of the hepatocyte culture with this nanocomposite introduced to the nutrient medium. The synthesized new water-soluble copper-containing nanocomposite is promising for biotechnological and biomedical research as a new non-toxic hydrophilic preparation that is allowed to regulate the work of key enzymes involved in energy metabolism and antioxidant protection as well as potentially serving as an additional source of copper.
Highlights
Copper is one of the main trace elements necessary for the normal development of mammals
Our investigation showed that the obtained nanocomposite exhibits low toxicity toward cultured rat hepatocytes. It was demonstrated both by cell morphology assay and the alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) activity analysis in culture media
It was found that the action of the nanocomposite on cells leads to an increase in the amount of cytochrome c oxidase (CcO), one of the key enzymes of oxidative phosphorylation
Summary
Copper is one of the main trace elements necessary for the normal development of mammals. In natural systems, it can exist in both an oxidized (Cu2+ ) or reduced (Cu+ ) state. The first phase involves the transport of ingested copper through the portal vein to the liver and further to the kidneys by binding to albumin and transcuprein. Ceruloplasmin synthesized in the liver ensures the redistribution of copper to other tissues and organs, mainly to the heart, lungs and brain, binding approximately 60–90% of the circulating Cu in the blood in both the Cu2+
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
