Lever
Lifestyle
- Avoid exposure to copper-containing pesticides
- Limit use of copper cookware
- Regular medical check-ups for liver health
Blutwerte · Marker
Kupfer
Copper · Serum Copper · Cu
ElektrolyteZeitabhängig
- Einheit:
- µmol/L
- Abbreviation
- Cu
Copper test measures the concentration of copper in the blood, reflecting copper metabolism and homeostasis.
Reference Ranges
Reference
11–24µmol/L
11
24
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · µmol/LReference ranges may vary based on age, sex, and laboratory methods.
Overview
Übersicht
Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element involved in various biological processes, including the function of enzymes and the maintenance of connective tissue integrity. It is measured in serum or plasma to assess copper homeostasis and potential toxicity. Clinically, copper levels are crucial in diagnosing and managing Wilson's disease, a genetic disorder characterized by copper accumulation in tissues, leading to hepatic and neurological dysfunction. Elevated copper levels may also indicate liver disease or be associated with certain cancers, while low levels can suggest malnutrition or malabsorption. For athletes and biohackers, maintaining optimal copper levels is essential for enzymatic functions that support energy production and antioxidant defense, potentially impacting performance and recovery. However, copper levels can be influenced by factors such as age, sex, inflammation, and hormonal status, necessitating careful interpretation of results. Researchers observed that non-ceruloplasmin-bound copper is a more specific marker for copper toxicity, especially in neurodegenerative conditions. Testing should consider potential confounders such as recent dietary intake and time of day, as copper levels may fluctuate based on these factors.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated copper levels can indicate Wilson's disease, liver disease, or certain cancers, while low levels may suggest malnutrition or malabsorption disorders. Copper imbalance can also be linked to neurodegenerative diseases.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising copper levels may suggest worsening of liver function or increased copper exposure. Retest in 4 weeks if outside optimal range.
Falling Values
Progressively falling copper levels may indicate improved management of copper overload or dietary changes.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Wilson's disease
- Liver disease
- Copper toxicity
- Certain cancers
- Excessive copper supplementation
Cause
Low Levels
- Malnutrition
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Zinc supplementation
- Menkes disease
- Chronic diarrhea
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Consume foods rich in zinc
- Limit intake of shellfish and organ meats
- Ensure balanced diet with adequate protein
Lever
Supplementation
- Zinc supplements
- Molybdenum supplements
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation, especially if diagnosed with a copper metabolism disorder.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
🕐Time-Sensitive
Copper levels may vary throughout the day; consistent timing for tests is recommended.
Testing Frequency
Annually for individuals with known liver conditions or genetic predispositions.
Interfering Factors
- Recent dietary copper intake
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Inflammatory conditions
Related Peptides & Hormones
Ceruloplasmin
hormone or peptideCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that the ideal biomarkers for copper neurotoxicity, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, remain elusive due to high inter-individual variability and the influence of confounders such as inflammation and hormonal status. Researchers have not yet established standardized assays for non-ceruloplasmin bound copper or copper chaperone for superoxide dismutase, which limits their clinical utility. Unanswered clinical questions include the identification of specific prognostic biomarkers for early diagnosis and monitoring of copper-related neurodegenerative diseases.
50 Research Publications
1,224
Total Citations
12
Human/RCT
2.0
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Copper in Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of serum, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid studies.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence1.0
181
This meta-analysis reviewed the role of copper in Alzheimer's disease by analyzing serum, plasma, and cerebrospinal fluid studies. Researchers found that copper levels were significantly higher in Alzheimer's patients compared to controls, reinforcing previous findings about copper's association with the disease.
02Top
#02
Role of copper transporters in platinum resistance.
ReviewInfluence6.0
131
This study investigated the role of copper transporters in platinum resistance in cancer treatment. Researchers found that copper transporter receptor 1 (CTR1) significantly influences platinum drug accumulation in tumors. They suggest that modulating CTR1 expression could provide new strategies to overcome resistance to platinum-based therapies.
03Top
#03
Biomarkers of copper status: a brief update.
ReviewInfluence1.0
121
This study updated the search for reliable biomarkers of copper status in humans. Researchers noted that current biomarkers are influenced by various factors, and a promising candidate, the copper chaperone CCS, is under investigation. The study emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to identify robust copper biomarkers.
04
#04
Copper in parenteral nutrition.
ReviewInfluence3.0
91
Researchers examined the role of copper in parenteral nutrition, highlighting its importance as an essential nutrient. They found that copper deficiency can lead to various health issues, and supplementation is necessary to prevent adverse effects. The study provides insights into recommended copper requirements for different age groups.
05
#05
New tools for Wilson's disease diagnosis: exchangeable copper fraction.
HumanInfluence5.0
80
Researchers found that relative exchangeable copper (REC) and exchangeable copper (CuEXC) are reliable biomarkers for diagnosing Wilson's disease. These tests provide rapid, non-invasive assessments of copper overload, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment without waiting for genetic test results.
06
#06
Factors affecting the algicidal and algistatic properties of copper.
In Vitro
77
This study explored the effects of different sources of copper on algae toxicity. Researchers found that while various copper sources were equally effective as toxic agents, the medium used significantly influenced the toxicity levels. A method for assessing algicidal and algistatic properties was also developed.
07
#07
Copper toxicity induced hepatocerebral and neurodegenerative diseases: an urgent need for prognostic biomarkers.
Review
67
This research focused on copper toxicity and its link to neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers observed that non-ceruloplasmin bound copper levels are elevated in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. They emphasized the need for reliable biomarkers to diagnose copper neurotoxicity, as current indicators are influenced by various factors.
08
#08
Wilson's disease: A master of disguise.
ReviewInfluence3.0
65
Researchers discussed the challenges in diagnosing Wilson's disease due to its diverse clinical manifestations. They highlighted the necessity for laboratory evaluations to confirm abnormal copper metabolism and emphasized the importance of early recognition to improve treatment outcomes. The study also reviewed potential new therapeutic approaches for managing the disease.
09
#09
Copper in depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence4.0
64
Researchers found that patients with depressive disorder had higher blood levels of copper compared to controls, suggesting a potential link between copper levels and mental health. The study conducted a meta-analysis of 21 studies, indicating that increased blood copper might be associated with depression, although hair copper levels showed no difference.
10
#10
Interactions of trace elements: clinical significance.
AnimalInfluence1.0
52
This study explored the interactions between zinc, copper, and lead, particularly in the context of Wilson's disease. Researchers found that zinc therapy can effectively reduce copper absorption, providing a potential treatment strategy for managing copper overload. The findings suggest that zinc may play a significant role in the therapeutic approach to Wilson's disease.
Clinical Trials (37)
37
Total Trials
3,376
Total Enrolled
Disulfiram/Copper Combination In The Treatment of Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiform
Sponsor
Olympion Medical Center
Enrollment
32
Started
2027
Primary outcome
Progression-free survival
Glioblastoma Multiforme
Effects of Ubiquinol and Ubiquinone on Vascular Function in Healthy Adults With Borderline High LDL-Cholesterol
NCT07881601NOT_YET_RECRUITING
Sponsor
SF Research Institute, Inc.
Enrollment
120
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Change in Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD)
Borderline High LDL-cholesterol
Effects of Copper Versus Levonorgestrel Intrauterine Devices on Mucosal Microbiota and Barrier Function Among Young African Women
NCT07627958NOT_YET_RECRUITING
Sponsor
Seattle Children's Hospital
Enrollment
120
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Cross-sectional comparisons of vaginal microbial Shannon alpha diversity.
Vaginal Microbial Diversity
Labile Iron Removal by Adding the Iron Chelator MEX-CD1 to Dialysate in Sepsis-Associated Acute Kidney Injury
Sponsor
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nīmes
Enrollment
14
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Free iron concentrations in the dialysis effluent
Acute Kidney InjurySepsis
Copper Supplementation in Cirrhosis
NCT07471542RECRUITING
Sponsor
University of Washington
Enrollment
30
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Plasma copper (Cu) concentration
CirrhosisChronic Liver DiseaseFibrosisInfection
Off Treatment Urinary Copper Excretion in Wilson Disease, Pilot Study
NCT07301216RECRUITING
Sponsor
Yale University
Enrollment
30
Started
2026
Primary outcome
Mean concentration of OT-UCE for each standard of care WD treatment
Wilson Disease
Subclinical Myocardial Dysfunction in Children With Wilson's Disease
NCT07765472ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
Sponsor
Hebatullah Fawzy
Enrollment
72
Started
2025
Primary outcome
Left Ventricular Peak Longitudinal Strain (LV-PLS)
Wilson's DiseaseMyocardial DysfunctionChildrenWilson DiseaseSpeckle Tracking EchocardiographyElectrocardiographic Changes
Characterization of New Phenotypes of Patients With Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treated With SMN Restoring Therapy
NCT06321965RECRUITING
Sponsor
Hospices Civils de Lyon
Enrollment
60
Started
2024
Primary outcome
Markers of disease progression and description of different phenotypes, at : muscular and functional
Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Preemie Milk Analyser Validation Study
NCT06486194UNKNOWN
Sponsor
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Enrollment
180
Started
2024
Primary outcome
Phase 1: Accuracy of the Preemie system against reference laboratory International Standards Organization (ISO) methods.
Pre-TermBreast Milk ExpressionNutrition Disorder, Infant
Comparison of Conventional and Cu-NiTi Archwires Regarding Clinical Efficiency and Pain Intensity Using Prostaglandin E2 Biomarker During Alignment and Leveling
NCT06653881COMPLETED
Sponsor
Postgraduate Institute of Dental Sciences Rohtak
Enrollment
30
Started
2024
Primary outcome
ARCH ALIGNMENT
Anterior Teeth Alignment EfficiencyPain PerceptionPGE2 Biomarker and Their Correlation
Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
NCT07760662RECRUITING
Sponsor
University of La Laguna
Enrollment
200
Started
2024
Primary outcome
Serum levels of Copper-Zinc Superoxide Dismutase
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RAOxidative StressCardiovascular (CV) Risk
Safety and Superiority of Penicillamine in Radiosensitization of Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer
Sponsor
Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University
Enrollment
10
Started
2023
Primary outcome
Objective response rate (ORR)
Head and Neck CancerRecurrent Cancer
64Cu-GRIP B in Patients With Advanced Malignancies
Sponsor
Rahul Aggarwal
Enrollment
91
Started
2023
Primary outcome
Frequency of treatment-emergent adverse events (Cohort A)
Prostate CancerRenal CancerUrethral CancerAdvanced Solid TumorMetastatic Castration-resistant Prostate CancerSolid Tumor, Adult
Determination of Copper and Other Trace Elements in Serum Samples From Patients With Biliary Tract Cancers
NCT06060990RECRUITING
Sponsor
Institute of Oncology Ljubljana
Enrollment
20
Started
2023
Primary outcome
Serum copper (Cu) as a predictive biomarker of the response to systemic treatment of biliary tract cancer patients
Trace Element Deficiency
Targeting ER Stress in Vascular Dysfunction
Sponsor
Colorado State University
Enrollment
17
Started
2019
Primary outcome
Endothelium-dependent vasodilation
VasodilationArterial Stiffness
Role of Copper-Albumin Complex in Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis in Human
NCT03736109UNKNOWN
Sponsor
Assiut University
Enrollment
60
Started
2019
Primary outcome
The mean difference of syndecan 4 expression and substance P before and after treatment
Osteo Arthritis Knee
A PK Study Comparing VeraCept vs. ParaGard Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
Sponsor
Sebela Women's Health Inc.
Enrollment
41
Started
2018
Primary outcome
Relative Maximum Observed Total Serum Copper Concentration of VeraCept vs ParaGard (Cmax)
Women at Risk for Pregnancy
Phase II Trial of Disulfiram With Copper in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Sponsor
The Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Czech Republic
Enrollment
9
Started
2017
Primary outcome
Clinical response rate (RR)
Breast Neoplasm FemaleMetastatic Breast Cancer
Different Doses of BI 1467335 Compared to Placebo in Patients With Clinical Evidence of NASH
Sponsor
Boehringer Ingelheim
Enrollment
114
Started
2017
Primary outcome
Plasma Amine Oxidase Copper-containing 3 (AOC3) Activity After 12 Weeks of Treatment, Relative to Baseline in Percent
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Functional Image and Molecular Markers to Predict Treatment Outcomes in Lung Cancer
NCT02117440TERMINATED
Sponsor
Indiana University
Enrollment
10
Started
2017
Primary outcome
Investigate predictive models for long-term tumor control and late treatment lung toxicity by using FDG-PET-CT, V/Q SPECT-CT and blood test during the course of radiation therapy.
Lung Neoplasms
Copper Cu-64 TP3805 PET/CT in Imaging Patients With Urothelial Cancer Undergoing Surgery or Biopsy
Sponsor
Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University
Enrollment
20
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Feasibility of Cu-64-TP3805 to detect UC as determined by post-surgical histology
Bladder Urothelial CarcinomaUrothelial Carcinoma
Effect of Short-term Annatto Carotenoids Supplementation on Oxidative Stress Status in Healthy Individuals
NCT03820245COMPLETED
Sponsor
Universidade Federal de Santa Maria
Enrollment
16
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Evaluation of LDL lipid moiety susceptibility to copper induced oxidation - oxidation rate
Oxidative StressAtherosclerosis
Cu64-DOTA-trastuzumab PET and Markers Predicting Response to Neoadjuvant Trastuzumab + Pertuzum in HER2+ Breast Cancer
Sponsor
City of Hope Medical Center
Enrollment
18
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Determined at Surgery (Lumpectomy or Mastectomy).
HER2 Positive Breast CarcinomaStage IIIA Breast CancerStage IIIB Breast CancerStage IIIC Breast Cancer
The Assessment of Copper Parameters in Wilson Disease Participants on Standard of Care Treatment
NCT02763215COMPLETED
Sponsor
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Enrollment
64
Started
2016
Primary outcome
Percentage Of Participants Who Achieved Or Maintained Normalized Concentrations Of Non-ceruloplasmin-bound Copper (NCC) Or Reached A Reduction Of ≥ 25% In NCC During 6 Months Of Treatment
Wilson Disease
Copper Cu 64 Anti-CEA Monoclonal Antibody M5A PET in Diagnosing Patients With CEA Positive Cancer
NCT02293954ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
Sponsor
City of Hope Medical Center
Enrollment
20
Started
2015
Primary outcome
Tumor Uptake of 64Cu-DOTA-hT4.66-M5A at Day 1
Breast CancerColon CancerExtrahepatic Bile Duct CancerGallbladder CancerGastrointestinal CancerLiver and Intrahepatic Biliary Tract CancerLung CancerMetastatic CancerPancreatic CancerRectal CancerThyroid Gland Medullary CarcinomaUnspecified Adult Solid Tumor, Protocol Specific
Copper Cu 64-DOTA-Trastuzumab PET in Predicting Response to Treatment With Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine in Patients With Metastatic HER2 Positive Breast Cancer
NCT02226276ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
Sponsor
City of Hope Medical Center
Enrollment
10
Started
2015
Primary outcome
Relationship Between Average Tumor Uptake of Copper Cu 64-DOTA-trastuzumab as Measured by PET and Patient Best Response
Bone MetastasesHER2-positive Breast CancerLiver MetastasesLung MetastasesRecurrent Breast CancerSoft Tissue MetastasesStage IV Breast Cancer
Evaluation of Micronutrients in Obese Patients
NCT04554082COMPLETED
Sponsor
Alexandria University
Enrollment
107
Started
2015
Primary outcome
Evaluation of zinc to copper ratio as biomarker of micro-nutrient deficiency
Nutritional Disorder
64Cu DOTA-Trastuzumab PET/CT in Studying Patients With Gastric Cancer
NCT01939275COMPLETED
Sponsor
City of Hope Medical Center
Enrollment
8
Started
2014
Primary outcome
Number of HER2 Negative, Positive, or Equivocal Participants With Either Negative or Positive Tumor Readings
Adenocarcinoma of the Gastroesophageal JunctionDiffuse Adenocarcinoma of the StomachIntestinal Adenocarcinoma of the StomachMixed Adenocarcinoma of the StomachRecurrent Gastric CancerStage IA Gastric CancerStage IB Gastric CancerStage IIA Gastric CancerStage IIB Gastric CancerStage IIIA Gastric CancerStage IIIB Gastric CancerStage IIIC Gastric CancerStage IV Gastric Cancer
Safety and Efficacy of Cunermuspir on Energy, Strength, and Fatigue in Patients With Nerve or Muscle Pain
Sponsor
Mitosynergy LLC
Enrollment
56
Started
2014
Primary outcome
Neuromuscular Symptoms
NeuralgiaMyalgia
Copper Cu 64 TP3805 PET in Detecting Cancer in Patients With Prostate Cancer Undergoing Surgery
Sponsor
Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University
Enrollment
25
Started
2013
Primary outcome
Detection rate of Cu-64 PET imaging of PC
Prostate AdenocarcinomaStage IIB Prostate CancerStage III Prostate CancerStage IV Prostate Cancer
Lower Silesia Culotte Bifurcation Registry (LSCBR).
NCT06284057RECRUITING
Sponsor
Regional Cardiology Center, The Copper Health Centre (MCZ),
Enrollment
400
Started
2013
Primary outcome
Target lesion failure (TLF)
Safety IssuesEfficacy, Self
Positron Emission Tomography in Women With Advanced HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
NCT01093612ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING
Sponsor
City of Hope Medical Center
Enrollment
18
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Tumor Uptake of 64Cu-DOTA-trastuzumab After 24 Hours
Breast CancerStage IV Breast Cancer
Human Biomarkers for Assessing Copper Deficiency
Sponsor
Purdue University
Enrollment
70
Started
2010
Primary outcome
copper co-enzymes
Copper Deficiency
The Reduction in Glucose Stimulated Insulin Secretion Induced by Cytokines May be Prevented by Copper Addition - Studies in Diabetic Patients
NCT00846144UNKNOWN
Sponsor
Hadassah Medical Organization
Enrollment
100
Started
2009
Primary outcome
Identify humans with marginal Cu status that may benefit from copper supplementation and normalize their GSIS.
HyperglycemiaDiabetes
Phase II Trial of 64Cu-ATSM PET/CT in Cervical Cancer
Sponsor
American College of Radiology
Enrollment
73
Started
2009
Primary outcome
Relationship Between Copper Cu 64-ATSM Uptake in the Primary Tumor and Progression-free Survival 3 Years After Chemoradiotherapy
Cervical Cancer
Exemestane With or Without ATN-224 in Treating Postmenopausal Women With Recurrent or Advanced Breast Cancer
Sponsor
Cancer Research UK
Enrollment
111
Started
2008
Primary outcome
Progression-free survival
Breast Cancer
Clinical Features and Outcome in Patients With Osseomuscular Type of Wilson's Disease
NCT04965558RECRUITING
Sponsor
Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, School of Medicine
Enrollment
1,000
Started
2004
Primary outcome
Serum ceruloplasmin
Clinical Features and Outcome
Publication Trend
Research publications about Kupfer over time
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