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How copper traverses cellular membranes through the mammalian copper transporter 1, Ctr1
Author(s) -
Öhrvik Helena,
Thiele Dennis J.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1111/nyas.12371
Subject(s) - transporter , microbiology and biotechnology , homeostasis , cytoplasm , intracellular , extracellular , copper , transport protein , biology , membrane , chemistry , function (biology) , enzyme , biochemistry , gene , organic chemistry
The copper transporter 1, Ctr1, is part of a major pathway for cellular copper (Cu) uptake in the intestinal epithelium, in hepatic and cardiac tissue, and likely in many other mammalian cells and tissues. Here, we summarize what is currently known about how extracellular Cu travels across the plasma membrane to enter the cytoplasm for intracellular distribution and for use by proteins and enzymes, the physiological roles of Ctr1, and its regulation. As a critical Cu importer, Ctr1 occupies a strategic position to exert a strong modifying influence on diseases and pathophysiological states caused by imbalances in Cu homeostasis. A more thorough understanding of the mechanisms that regulate Ctr1 abundance, trafficking, and function will provide new insights and opportunities for disease therapies.