Blood Copper Levels Research Articles (Page 1)

BackgroundWe used an algorithm to determine age- and sex-specific reference intervals (RIs) for copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, and lead in blood. Data were collected from three health screening centers.MethodsThe data were obtained from the trace element test results of 3933 outpatients aged <18 years at three health examination centers in Lincang City between June 2014 and May 2024. Atomic absorption spectrometry was employed to measure the trace element. Participants were divided into subgroups at 1-year intervals according to age and gender. Decision trees were constructed by the Classification and Regression Tree method to determine the optimal age segmentation point. Harris-Boyd and Lahti methods were used to assess the appropriateness of age segmentation.ResultsAfter the appropriate segmentation points are determined, the refineR algorithm is applied to calculate RIs. After data cleaning, 3933 samples were analyzed for age subgroup partitioning of trace elements from 1 month through 18 years. The difference between the age sub-groups was statistically significant according to the Harris-Boyd method and the Lahti method. Blood copper and calcium levels gradually decreased with months and blood zinc and iron concentration gradually increased with months. After gradually decreasing with months, blood pb levels in boys and girls tended to peak at 15 years and beyond. Blood magnesium levels remained stable.ConclusionsWe have established RIs for six trace elements for children, and the methods we use provide reference for laboratories around the world.

Cuproptosis, a newly identified form of copper-dependent regulated cell death, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. However, whether cuproptosis is involved in lead (Pb)-induced cognitive impairment and its underlying mechanisms remains unclear. Herein, using Pb-exposed rat models and HT22 neuronal cell models, we found that Pb exposure led to dose-dependent increases in copper levels in both hippocampus tissue and blood. These increases were accompanied by disorganized hippocampus neuron structures, nuclear shrinkage, and were correlated with cognitive decline. Then, the IMAC approach was employed to isolate copper-associated proteins, followed by proteomic sequencing. The differentially expressed copper-binding proteins were significantly enriched in biological processes related to cuproptosis. Notably, the expressions of key cuproptosis-associated proteins-DLAT, DLST, FDX1, and LIAS-were markedly reduced in the hippocampus and neuron cells following Pb exposure, with DLAT showing the most pronounced decrease. Moreover, tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) treatment, a cuproptosis inhibitor, significantly attenuated Pb-induced neuron death. Overexpression of DLAT effectively reversed Pb-induced neuron cuproptosis, as evidenced by decreased intracellular copper and H2O2 levels and increased ATP and CAT levels. Additionally, a preliminary investigation on Pb-exposed workers revealed that blood Dlat mRNA expression partially mediated the relationship between blood Pb levels and cognitive performance scores. Collectively, these findings suggest that cuproptosis contributes to Pb-induced cognitive impairment, with DLAT playing a key regulatory role in this process.

BackgroundMicrominerals copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) regulate neuronal signaling and brain function. Deficiencies of these minerals are common in adolescents due to unhealthy eating habits. We investigated the association between micromineral levels and cognitive function and academic performance in a nationally representative sample of adolescents.MethodsAdolescents (N = 1,370; 11–14 years) were selected from public middle schools in Kuwait, using cluster random sampling. Data on various covariates were collected through a questionnaire from the subjects and their parents. Blood micromineral levels were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Cognitive function was evaluated through the Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices test and academic performance data were taken from the school records.ResultsMedian (IQR) blood levels of microminerals (μg/dL) were as follows: Cu, 22.5 (15.2, 33.0); Mn, 6.0 (3.5, 10.6); Se, 34.2 (22.1, 52.5); Zn, 163.5 (118.5, 233.5). On average, SPM score was higher by 5 points in adolescents with mineral levels above the median, compared to those with levels below median (p < 0.05). Academic performance in adolescents with micromineral levels in Q1 was lower by an average of seven-percentage points compared to those in Q4 (p < 0.01). Multivariable regression analysis showed positive association (p < 0.01) with both cognitive function and academic performance, whether the micromineral levels were used as continuous variable or as quartiles.ConclusionIn this cohort, blood micromineral levels are positively associated with cognitive function and academic performance. Improving micromineral status by public health intervention is strongly warranted, as academic performance during early-life education has implications on the later-life socio-economic status.

Background: The pathogenesis of psoriasis is poorly understood. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation are crucial in the inflammatory processes, including psoriasis. Thus, microelements, such as zinc and copper, may play a significant role in this disease's development. Methods: Due to the paucity and inconsistency of literature data, we studied the levels of copper and zinc in blood and serum from 301 unselected psoriatic patients and 301 matched healthy controls and examined any associations among the microelements and clinical course or SOD2 (rs4880), CAT (rs1001179), GPX1 (rs1050450), and DMGDH (rs921943) DNA variants. Results: The mean blood copper levels were 864.94 µg/L and 907.24 µg/L, respectively, for controls and psoriasis patients (p < 0.001). The mean serum copper levels were 1,104.14 µg/L and 1191.72 µg/L, respectively, for controls and psoriasis patients (p < 0.001). The psoriasis risk was highest the among participants with the highest blood levels (>950.02 µg/L, OR: 2.36; 95% CI: 1.31-4.26; p = 0.004) and the highest serum concentrations (>1276.98 µg/L, OR: 3.08; 95% CI: 1.77-5.36; p < 0.001). The mean serum zinc levels were significantly lower (p < 0.001) among patients (910.87 µg/L) when compared to controls (979.68 µg/L). The mean blood zinc levels were not significantly different in cases and controls. Subjects with the lowest serum zinc levels (<843.68 µg/L) were affected more frequently (OR: 3.85; 95% CI: 2.24-6.60; p < 0.001). We found positive correlations between copper levels and PASI and inverse correlations of serum zinc levels with PASI and NAPSI scores. There were no associations between the levels of microelements and studied DNA variants. Conclusions: Our results support the thesis of an association between psoriasis onset and altered course of the disease with upset levels of copper and zinc. Future prospective studies might focus on optimization of the concentration of these trace elements for prophylaxis and to support the treatment of psoriasis.

Gastric cancer is a common malignant tumor of the digestive tract, both domestically and internationally. It has high incidence and mortality rates, posing a significant threat to human health. The levels of blood copper are elevated in patients with gastric cancer. However, the exact relationship between copper overload and the malignant phenotype of gastric cancer is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the role of the Cuproptosis-related factor FDX1 in the conversion of gastric cancer to a malignant phenotype. Firstly, the relative mRNA and protein expression levels of FDX1 in gastric cancer were detected. Secondly, lentiviral transfection of gastric cancer cell lines was performed, and the effects of FDX1 functional intervention on the proliferation, invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells were assessed by CCK-8, colony formation, EdU proliferation, cell scratch and Transwell assays. Thirdly, the differential alteration of genes after overexpression of FDX1 was also analyzed by transcriptome sequencing. Finally, we assessed the tumour-forming capacity in vivo by the xenograft model. FDX1 is significantly upregulated in gastric cancer. The inhibition of FDX1 function results in the suppression of malignant phenotypic transformation in gastric cancer cells. Conversely, overexpression of FDX1 function leads to alterations in tumor-related signaling pathways and the tumor microenvironment. FDX1 plays a significant role in the malignant phenotypic transformation of gastric cancer cells. Further investigation into the regulatory mechanism of FDX1 in the malignant transformation of gastric cancer will enhance our understanding of the involvement of Cuproptosis in gastric cancer.

Hexavalent chromium exposure induces lung injury via activation of NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes in rats

Depression is a widespread mental health condition that can impact both mental and physical well-being. Prior research has shown that high levels of copper in the blood and low levels of folate are linked to depression. This study aimed to explore whether serum folate levels, independently or in combination with serum copper levels, associated with the risk of depression. Data from participants aged 18-80 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2011 to 2016 were analyzed to examine the role of trace elements. Depression was assessed using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Logistic regression analyses were employed to evaluate the main effect of serum copper and folate levels on depression. Three indices, including the relative excess risk of interaction (RERI), attributable proportion of interaction (API), and synergy index (SI), were used to analyze the interaction effect. Among the 4,847 participants selected for this study, 429 (8.9%) had PHQ-9 scores above 10, which we defined as having depressive symptoms. After adjusting for all confounding factors, higher serum copper levels [≥15.5 vs. <15.5 μmol/L, odds ratio (OR): 1.54; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.18-2.11] and folate deficiency (folate ≥53.7 vs. <53.7 μmol/L, OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.21-2.10) were associated with an increased risk of depression. Patients with both higher serum copper levels and folate deficiency (OR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.43-3.14) had the highest risk of depression than other levels. High copper levels and low folate levels are associated with the occurrence of depression symptoms, and there may be a synergistic effect between them (SI: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.49-4.76), with this interaction accounting for 19% of depression cases (API: 0.19; 95% CI: 0.01-0.54). There may be a synergistic interaction between high copper levels and low folate levels associated with increasing risk of depression. Further population-based interventional studies are needed to confirm whether folic acid supplementation is effective in preventing depression in individuals with high blood copper levels.

Background Trace elements like zinc and copper are indispensable for human growth and development, exerting significant influence on a multitude of physiological processes. Acting as pivotal components for transcription factors and catalytic cofactors for enzymes, these elements play essential roles in cellular differentiation and maturation Objective The objective of this study was to study serum zinc and copper levels in mothers and neonates in relation to prematurity and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Methods This was a cross-sectional study that included 100 mothers who met the inclusion criteria. Maternal history was recorded, and gestational age was estimated using the New Ballard scoring system. Maternal and cord blood samples were taken for zinc and copper analysis. Results The comparison of maternal copper and zinc levels between term and preterm neonates revealed a statistically significant difference with both trace elements found in less concentration in preterm when compared to the term patients (p= 0.03 for Zinc; 0.0001 for copper). We also report a statistically significant difference in maternal and cord blood copper and zinc levels in cases with IUGR compared to normal neonates. Conclusion The findings show that maternal zinc and copper levels are critical for the intrauterine growth of the fetus and for appropriate gestational age.

Background. Copper is an essential trace element found in the human body in an oxidized (Cu II) and reduced (Cu I) form. It plays a crucial role in the integrity and function of proteins and enzymes. Short-term and long-term exposure to copper can result in harmful effects and lead to clinical manifestations in multiple bodily systems, including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys, eyes, respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous, endocrine, and hematopoietic systems. Objective. The purpose of this study is the importance of early recognition and diagnosis of copper poisoning immediate and necessary measures and the use of chelators. Materials and Methods. In this review article, authors from Pub Med, Scopus, and a toxicologic emergencies reference book from 1996 to 2024 are used. Result. An excessive increase in copper level produces reactive oxygen species that can cause lipid peroxidation in cell membranes, direct oxidation of proteins, and the breakdown of DNA and RNA molecules. All of these can generally be reasons for cell death. Conclusion. Assessing levels of copper in whole blood, free serum copper, 24-hr urine copper, liver biopsy for copper concentration, and ceruloplasmin play a crucial role in the diagnosis. The blood copper concentration is directly related to the severity of poisoning. Treatment for copper poisoning typically involves removing the source of exposure and administering medications to help remove the excess copper from the body. Supportive care for copper intoxication usually includes managing vomiting, correcting fluids and electrolytes, and stabilizing vital signs. Chelators like D-penicillamine, succimer, trientine, tetrathiomolybdate, and PBT-2 have been utilized in treatment.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common metabolic disorder in overweight and obese children, and its etiology and pathogenesis remain unclear, lacking effective preventive and therapeutic measures. This study aims to explore the association between whole blood copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron levels and NAFLD in overweight and obese children aged 6 to 17 years, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and intervention of early NAFLD in overweight and obese children. A cross-sectional study design was used to collect relevant data from overweight and obese children who visited the Hunan Children's Hospital from January 2019 to December 2021 through questionnaire surveys. Fasting blood samples were collected from the subjects, and various indicators such as blood glucose, blood lipid, and mineral elements were detected. All children were divided into an overweight group (n=400) and a NAFLD group (n=202). The NAFLD group was divided into 2 subgroups according to the ALT level: A non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) group and a non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) group. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between minerals (copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and iron) and NAFLD, NAFL and NASH. A total of 602 subjects were included, of whom 73.6% were male, with a median age of 10 (9, 11) years, and a body mass index (BMI) of 24.9 (22.7, 27.4) kg/m2. The intergroup comparison results showed that compared with the overweight group, the NAFLD group had higher levels of age, BMI, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lower level of high density lipoprotein (HDL). The NAFL group had higher levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, ALT, and AST, and lower levels of HDL compared with the overweight group. The levels of age, BMI, DBP, SBP, TG, LDL, ALT, and AST of NASH were higher than those in the overweight group, while the level of HDL was lower than that in overweight group (all P<0.017). After adjusting for a variety of confounders, the OR of NAFLD for the highest quantile of iron was 1.79 (95% CI 1.07 to 3.00) compared to the lowest quantile, and no significant association was observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium, and NAFLD. The subgroup analysis of NAFLD showed that the OR for the highest quantile of iron in children with NAFL was 2.21 (95% CI 1.26 to 3.88), while no significant association was observed between iron level and NASH. In addition, no significant associations were observed between copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium levels and NAFL or NASH. High iron level increases the risk of NAFLD (more likely NAFL) in overweight and obese children, while copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and other elements are not associated with the risk of NAFLD in overweight and obese children.

Aripiprazole is a newer anti-psychotic agent with low liability for Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS). Acute dystonia develops due to a lack of dopamine, resulting in a relative overactivity of cholinergic neurons. In the past, cases of Aripiprazole-induced acute dystonia have been reported more frequently among adults than children. Here, the authors present a case in which acute dystonia developed at a very low dose (2 mg) of Aripiprazole. The case involves a 10-year-old boy diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) who exhibited aggressive behaviour and irritability. Aripiprazole (2 mg) was initiated for treatment, but after five days, the patient developed excessive sleepiness, slurred speech, oculogyric crisis, and torticollis, indicative of acute dystonia. To rule out any organic causes, a detailed assessment and investigations were conducted, including complete blood counts, liver and kidney function tests, serum calcium, electrolytes, ceruloplasmin, blood copper levels, slit-lamp examination for Kayser-Fleischer ring, and electroencephalography, which did not reveal any significant organic conditions. Aripiprazole was discontinued, and Promethazine was administered. The dystonia score on the Unified Dystonia Rating Scale (UDRS) decreased from 10 to 0 in 5 days, indicating complete resolution of dystonia. Naranjo’s causality assessment score was seven, reflecting the probable association of aripiprazole with acute dystonia. This case emphasises the importance of monitoring for adverse reactions to anti-psychotic medications, particularly in paediatric patients, and the need for prompt recognition and management of adverse effects to ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of acute dystonia in a child at such a low dose of Aripiprazole. Clinicians should be vigilant for the emergence of such significant adverse effects of commonly used drugs.

This research focused on evaluating blood mineral levels and malondialdehyde (MDA) as an indicator of oxidative stress before and after giving birth in Achai and Holstein Friesian (HF) dairy cows. Blood samples were obtained from a total of 50 cows representing both breeds on the third, second, and first week prior to calving, as well as on the day of calving (day 0). Subsequently, samples were collected on the 1-3 weeks postpartum to allow a comprehensive evaluation of blood parameters throughout the peripartum period. Results showed a significant (p < .01) decrease in serum zinc (Zn) levels on the day of parturition in both breeds. Additionally, HF cows exhibited higher (p < .01) Zn levels on week 2 before giving birth. Interestingly, blood selenium (Se) concentration increased (p < .01) in HF cows on weeks 2 and 3 after calving. In contrast, Achai cows showed a rise (p < .01) in blood Se on week 3 of parturition. Blood copper (Cu) levels were higher (p < .01) on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition in HF cows and on third week before parturition compared to Achai cows, where serum Cu remained high on week 1 of parturition. The findings indicated that blood magnesium (Mg) was higher (p < .01) on third week before parturition in Achai cows and on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition. Serum calcium (Ca) was higher (p < .01) in both HF and Achai cows on weeks 2 and 3 after parturition, and lower (p < .01) on third week before giving birth in both breeds. The mean blood MDA levels in Achai cows were lower (p < .01) on weeks 1 to 3 postpartum or 3 weeks before giving birth. In HF cows, serum MDA increased (p < .01) just before 2 weeks of parturition and remained elevated until 3 weeks of parturition. Thus, both breeds exhibited a similar pattern of mineral fluctuations; yet, Achai cows demonstrated greater resilience to oxidative stress compared to HF cows during the transition period.

Micronutrient insufficiency has been implicated in malaria pathogenesis. However, the role of copper in malaria remains inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate the association between copper levels and malaria pathogenesis, providing a deeper understanding of copper's role in the disease. A systematic review was conducted following the registered protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42023439732). Multiple databases, including Embase, MEDLINE, Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched for relevant studies reporting blood copper levels in patients with malaria. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist was used for assessing methodological quality. Qualitative and quantitative syntheses were employed, organizing, and summarizing the findings of the included studies. To calculate the standardized mean difference (Hedge's g) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), a random-effects model was used. After screening the databases, 16 studies were included. Most studies (52.9%) reported that individuals with malaria had significantly higher copper levels than uninfected controls. The meta-analysis, based on 16 studies, showed no significant difference in copper levels between patients with malaria and uninfected controls overall (p = 0.39; Hedges' g, 0.38; 95% CI, -0.48 to 1.25; I2, 98.73%). Subgroup analysis showed a significant difference in copper levels between patients with malaria and uninfected controls among studies conducted in Asia (p < 0.01; Hedges' g, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.04 to 2.44; I2, 90.88%; five studies) and studies employing plasma blood samples (p < 0.01; Hedges' g, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.60 to 2.07; I2, 93.11%; four studies). The qualitative synthesis of the reviewed studies suggests a complex relationship between copper levels and malaria. The meta-analysis results showed no significant difference in copper levels between patients with malaria and uninfected controls overall. However, subgroup analyses based on various factors, including continent and blood sample type, showed copper level variations. These findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the role of copper in malaria pathogenesis by considering geographical factors and the blood sample type used for copper level measurement.

Abstract The aims of this study were to investigate the heavy metal pollution status and distribution and to analyze the relationships among metal concentrations of different links in the dairy production chain. Chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) levels in water, fodder, milk, blood, hair, and feces samples collected from cows from five dairy farms in China were measured. The concentrations of Cr, As, Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn were 4.61–11.11, 0.06–0.46, 0.17–0.29, 2.84–4.23, 4.11–7.72, and 7.23–19.91 mg/kg in silage; 12.72–40.85, 0.76–2.40, 0.05–0.16, 4.73–9.16, 44.14–78.46, and 4148.51–4845.20 μg/L in milk; 33.59–60.73, 0.09–3.57, 0.29–1.78, 20.14–39.20, 821.34–1007.45, and 2665.10–4929.95 μg/L in blood; 0.59–1.06, 0.02–0.09, 0.08–0.11, 1.70–2.09, 6.45–8.64, and 9.73–1.56 mg/kg in hair; 31.75–296.35, 0.33–5.96, 0.18–0.53, 3.35–9.06, 12.27–41.39, and 56.54–196.34 mg/kg in feces, respectively. The concentrations of heavy metals in hair were higher than those in the other samples and when combined with the results from the silage and tissue samples, we can assume that cow's hair can be used as a biological indicator for heavy metal contamination in the dairy production chain.

Copper (Cu), an essential trace element, is crucial for both the mother and fetus. Currently, an increasing number of studies have focused on blood copper levels during pregnancy. Studies have found that blood copper levels in pregnant women are higher than those in reproductive-age women, but the trend, mainly in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, is still controversial. Most studies showed that blood copper levels gradually increased during pregnancy, while some studies found that blood copper levels remained stable or even decreased in the 3rd trimester. The possible mechanisms of variations in blood copper during pregnancy include the influence of estrogen (hepatic uptake and excretion, ceruloplasmin synthesis, maternal-fetal transport, etc.), the interaction of other trace elements (Fe, Zn, etc.) and other factors. Among them, maternal-fetal copper transport caused by elevated estrogen may be the main reason for the inconsistencies observed in the 2nd and 3rd trimester during pregnancy. However, there are some mechanisms require further investigation. In the future, the trend and mechanisms of blood copper during pregnancy should be explored more deeply to help doctors better monitor copper status and detect copper abnormalities in time.

The supplementation of multiple micronutrients throughout pregnancy can reduce the risk of adverse birth outcomes and various diseases in children. However, the long-term effect of maternal multiple micronutrient levels in the second trimester on the overall development of preschoolers remains unknown. Therefore, 1017 singleton mother–infant pairs and 6-year-old preschoolers were recruited based on the China-Wuxi Birth Cohort Study. Meanwhile, information on the demographic characteristics of pregnant women and preschoolers, maternal copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc levels in whole blood during the second trimester, and neonatal outcomes, were collected. We aimed to investigate the long-term impact of maternal copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc levels in the second trimester on mild thinness among 6-year-old preschoolers, and the modifying effect of small for gestational age (SGA), within the Chinese population. Multiple logistic regression models revealed that high-level maternal iron in the second trimester reduced the risk of mild thinness [adjusted OR: 0.46 (95% CI: 0.26, 0.80)] among 6-year-old preschoolers. However, no significant association was found for the remaining four maternal essential metal elements. Additionally, the restricted cubic spline function showed that the risk of mild thinness decreased when maternal iron concentration exceeded 7.47 mmol/L in whole blood during the second trimester. Furthermore, subgroup analysis indicated that the long-term protective effect of high-level maternal iron on mild thinness was only observed in SGA infants. Summarily, high-level maternal iron in the second trimester distinctly lowers the risk of mild thinness among 6-year-old preschoolers, especially in preschoolers with birth outcomes of SGA. Our findings offer evidence for the implementation of iron supplementation in the second trimester as a preventive measure against mild thinness in children.

The ability to accumulate metals in organs and tissues leads to disturbances in the physiological functioning of the body, causing oxidative stress. This negatively affects the functioning of the placenta and may result in miscarriages, premature birth and fetal growth disorders. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between the levels of selected heavy metals in umbilical cord blood and anthropometric parameters of mothers and the newborns. Content of elements in umbilical cord blood has been assessed by high-resolution inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The study results were collected and statistically analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics software (PS IMAGO). The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to test for associations between selected variables. Regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of anthropometric parameters of studied women and newborns. The study group consisted of women aged 19–41, whose pregnancy was uncomplicated and were not exposed to heavy metals due to their work or smoking. The following metals were identified in all collected cord blood samples: lead (26.25 ± 9.32 µg/L), zinc (2025.24 ± 717.83 µg/L), copper (749.85 ± 203.86 µg/L), manganese (32.55 ± 13.58 µg/L), chromium (8.34 ± 2.16 µg/L) and selenium (158.46 ± 41.58 µg/L). The conducted statistical analysis indicated the relationship between the copper content in the umbilical cord blood and the weight gain of pregnant women. A significant relationship was observed between newborn head circumference and chromium content. In addition, significant positive correlations were found between the content of zinc and copper, manganese and lead, manganese and selenium, lead and selenium, and lead and chromium in umbilical cord blood. The ratio of zinc to copper concentrations was related to neonatal head circumference. Weight gain in pregnant women is positively correlated with the copper level in umbilical cord blood. There is an association between head circumference at birth and the chromium concentration in umbilical cord blood. Copper and zinc levels in umbilical cord blood are positively correlated with head circumference at birth.

Background Hemodialysis patients are at risk for deficiency of essential trace elements and excess of toxic trace elements, both of which can affect health. Objectives Up to our knowledge, there is no previous data about the normal values of trace elements in pediatric hemodialysis patient, so our aim was to evaluate the status of both serum zinc &amp; copper in our pediatric hemodialysis patients in order to evaluate the need for supplementation. Methodology This is a case control study which involved 2 groups: Patients’ group included 60 children with end stage kidney disease on regular hemodialysis following up at Pediatric Dialysis Unit, Ain Shams University Hospitals and 60 healthy children served as a control group. Measurements of serum copper and zinc were performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, complete blood count (CBC), iron and lipid profiles were done and correlated to serum copper and zinc level. Results Patients’ group were 32 males (53.3%) and 28 females (46.6%) with an average age of 13.06 ± 2.08, 8-17 years, BMI of (15.07 ± 3.30, 8.38-21.14 Kg/m2) and duration of hemodialysis was (3.28 ± 2.33, 1-10 years). The control group were 39 males (65%) and 21 females (35%) with age of (8 ± 2.14, 5-12 years) and BMI was (16.36 ± 1.30, 14.6-18.5 Kg/m2). Six patients (10%) had low serum zinc level with values between 58 to 59 mcg% (normal:60-120 mcg%), while only two patients (3.3%) had low serum copper level with values of 66 mcg% (normal:70140 mcg%). All control group had normal serum zinc and copper levels with a significant difference between patients and control groups as regards serum copper level (Patients’ group 78.06 ± 7.5 mcg%, control group 82.46 ± 8.13 mcg%, P = 0.03). We found a negative correlation between blood copper and ferritin level (r = 0.334, P value = 0.009). We also found a positive correlation between blood copper and cholesterol level (r = 0.276, P value = 0.033). Conclusion Hemodialysis could lead to depletion of biologically essential trace elements, thus routine monitoring of trace element blood levels is important for proper nutritional support of patients on hemodialysis.

Effect of lead, calcium, iron, zinc, copper and magnesium on anemia in children with BLLs ≥ 100 μg/L

The association between copper levels and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been a controversial topic. This study investigated relationship between copper levels and ASD. The following databases are searched until April 2022: PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science. Combined effect size standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated with Stata 12.0. In this meta-analysis, 29 case-control studies were included, which included 2,504 children with ASD and 2,419 healthy controls. The copper levels in hair (SMD:-1.16, 95% CI:-1.73 to-0.58) was significantly lower in ASD children than healthy controls. The copper levels in blood (SMD: 0.10, 95% CI:-0.12 to 0.32) not significantly compare ASD with controls. Copper may be associated with the development of ASD in children.