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Copper Deficiency as Wilson's Disease Overtreatment: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND: Treatment of Wilson's disease WD, an inherited disease characterized by copper overload, is lifelong and there is the possibility that copper deficiency CD may occur. We systematically reviewed the literature to describe treatment patterns, symptoms and outcomes associated with CD. METHODS: Using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses PRISMA guidelines, the PubMed database was searched up to 6 April 2023. RESULTS: Across 17 articles, 20 cases of CD were described, most commonly 15 cases in WD patients treated with zinc salts ZS, less often on combined chelator and ZS therapy 3 cases, molybdate  salts plus ZS 1, or molybdate  alone 1. CD symptoms occurred insidiously, including sideroblastic anemia, neutropenia, axonal sensory neuropathy, posterior cord myelopathy and increased ratio of epileptic seizures or epilepsy. CD diagnosis was based on symptoms and severely reduced urinary copper excretion <20 µg/24 h [<0.3 µmol/24 h] on ZS, or <100 µg/24 h [<1.6 µmol/24 h] on chelators with low total serum copper and ceruloplasmin. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness of CD and regular monitoring of copper metabolism is needed during WD treatment. Temporary cessation of anti-copper treatment usually reverses serum copper reductions as well as pancytopenia; however, some symptoms, especially neuropathy and myelopathy, may persist.

T. Litwin, A. Antos, J. Bembenek, A. Przybyłkowski, I. Kurkowska-Jastrzębska, M. Skowrońska, and A. Członkowska,Copper Deficiency as Wilson's Disease Overtreatment: A Systematic Review, Diagnostics

INTERACTIONS

Polyphenols green tea

Effects of green tea polyphenols on trace metals level of rats on food restriction and high-fat diet

Little evidence showed the interplay between tea and diet in the regulation of trace metal. Here, we examined the effects of green tea polyphenols (GTPs) on the level of trace elements (TEs) in rats on food restriction or high fat diet. Thirty-six rats (Wistar, male) were randomly divided into 6 groups and fed on standard diet, food restriction and high-fat diet with or without GTPs (200 mg/kg bw/day) supplementation, respectively. Levels of vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), molybdenum (Mo) and cobalt (Co) in feed, whole blood, femur and urine were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C, HDL-C) in serum were determined. Decreased daily intakes of TEs were observed in rats on food restriction and high-fat diet. Decreased whole blood level of Zn, femur level of Co and increase urinary excretion of Se were observed in rats fed on high-fat diet. GTPs altered the whole blood level of several TEs in rats on food restriction (V, Zn, Co) or high-fat diet (V, Se), respectively, but not in rats fed on standard diet. The level of several TEs in femur and the daily urinary excretion of V and Mo were altered by GTPs in rats on all of the three diets. In addition, rats fed on high-fat diet developed dyslipidemia, which was ameliorated by GTPs. The data indicated that diet status played a role in the effects of GTPs on TEs and lipid metabolism, and trace elements may play a role in the modulation of lipid metabolic disturbances by high-fat diet and GTPs.

N. N. Wu, G. Y. Yang, C. Tian, W. J. Yi, S. Q. He, G. Eskedar, F. Y. Xu, X. Xie, S. Y. Xiang, M. Y. Du, Y. J. Bu, and C. J. Ying,Effects of green tea polyphenols on trace metals level of rats on food restriction and high-fat diet, Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2019, 51, 91-97.

COPPER

Copper physiology in ruminants: trafficking of systemic copper, adaptations to variation in nutritional supply and thiomolybdate challenge [Review]

Ruminants are recognised to suffer from Cu-responsive disorders. Present understanding of Cu transport and metabolism is limited and inconsistent across vets and veterinary professionals. There has been much progress from the studies of the 1980s and early 1990s in cellular Cu transport and liver metabolism which has not been translated into agricultural practice. Cu metabolism operates in regulated pathways of Cu trafficking rather than in pools of Cu lability. Cu in the cell is chaperoned to enzyme production, retention within metallothionein or excretion via the Golgi into the blood. The hepatocyte differs in that Cu-containing caeruloplasmin can be synthesised to provide systemic Cu supply and excess Cu is excreted via bile. The aim of the present review is to improve understanding and highlight the relevant progress in relation to ruminants through the translation of newer findings from medicine and non-ruminant animal models into ruminants.

A. H. Clarkson, S. Paine, J. Martin-Tereso, and N. R. Kendall,Copper physiology in ruminants: trafficking of systemic copper, adaptations to variation in nutritional supply and thiomolybdate challenge, Nutrition Research Reviews, 2020, 33, 43-49.

 

COPPER

Supra-nutritional copper influences blood parameters including antioxidant markers and immune response in Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves

Copper (Cu) is an important trace element with a wide list of functions in the animal body. Due to wide interaction with various other macro and trace elements in the gastrointestinal tract, its requirement, as well as toxicity, remains always questionable. Higher amounts than routine recommendations in the ration remained an indicator of superior performance. In search of the positive impact of additional Cu on performance of growing male Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves (n = 10, 8-9 months, 111.60 +/- 13.69 kg body weight), were divided equally into two groups of five each and fed either a control diet or supplemented with 10 ppm Cu through copper sulphate after mixing with same concentrate mixture used in control diet (Cu 10.4 ppm) for a period of 80 days. Blood samples were collected before starting supplementation (0 day) and at day 40 and 80 after starting supplementation and subjected to analysis of Haematology, plasma minerals, antioxidant profile as well as for cell-mediated and humoral immune response against antigen P. multocida. Supra-nutritional copper improved blood neutrophil (P = 0.048) and plasma selenium (P = 0.046) levels with reduced blood lymphocyte % (P = 0.029) on the 40th day (P < 0.05) after starting supplementation, while other hematological parameters and plasma minerals remained unaffected. Among antioxidant markers of blood, levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances were low (P = 0.004), while ceruloplasmin was high (P = 0.05) at the 80th day of observation as compared to control values. The values of enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) improved (P = 0.044) (from 40th day onwards), with their overall mean values (P = 0.005) due to Cu supplementation, while reduced glutathione, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, a tocopherol, retinol and beta carotene concentrations remained unaffected due to supra-nutritional Cu. Although cell-mediated immune response remained comparable (P > 0.05) between groups, an improvement (P = 0.01) in overall mean values of antibody titer was reported in supra-nutritional Cu group. The study concluded that supra-nutritional Cu (@20.4 ppm of diet) in the ration of growing Murrah buffalo calves was helpful in improving the antioxidant potential as well as a humoral immune response in a short duration study, which highlighted the additional beneficial role of copper in a ration of growing buffalo calves as compared to its recommended dose.

V. Mudgal, A. K. Garg, R. S. Dass, and M. Rawat,Supra-nutritional copper influences blood parameters including antioxidant markers and immune response in Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves, Livestock Science, 2019, 225, 15-25.

 

COPPER

Copper deficiency induced using high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet of cattle         

Biochemical and Morphological Alterations in Hearts of Copper-Deficient Bovines

Copper deficiency is an important disease of cattle that produces several clinical signs and lesions, due to alterations in copper-dependent enzymes. One of the organs affected by this deficiency is the heart (falling disease), but nevertheless, these cardiac lesions have not been extensively studied in bovines. The aim of this work was to propose a possible pathogenic mechanism for cardiac lesions in cattle affected by copper deficiency. Because of the possible existence of oxidative distress caused by low levels of copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase and cytochrome oxidase, ultrastructural and histological lesions have been evaluated in the heart of bovines in which a Cu deficiency had been induced using high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet. Our results indicated that copper deficiency produces significant damage in myocardium with high levels of lipid oxidation and a significant reduction in copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase activity leading to an oxidative distress situation. However, cytochrome oxidase activity was not significantly reduced. Histological observation revealed a significant increase in the amount of connective tissue, enlarged basement membranes of myocytes, and numerous Anichkov cells, in the hearts of deficient animals. Ultrastructural observation showed a significant enhancement in the mitochondrial volume density, with presence of lesions such as swelling and cristae disruption. We conclude that copper deficiency in bovines causes morphological lesions in the heart due to an oxidative damage produced by copper-dependent enzyme alterations.

R. W. I. Olivares, G. C. Postma, A. Schapira, D. E. Iglesias, L. B. Valdez, E. Breininger, P. D. Gazzaneo, and L. Minatel,Biochemical and Morphological Alterations in Hearts of Copper-Deficient Bovines, Biological trace element research, 2019, 189, 447-455.

 

Biochemical and Morphological Alterations in Hearts of Copper-Deficient Bovines

Copper deficiency is an important disease of cattle that produces several clinical signs and lesions, due to alterations in copper-dependent enzymes. One of the organs affected by this deficiency is the heart (falling disease), but nevertheless, these cardiac lesions have not been extensively studied in bovines. The aim of this work was to propose a possible pathogenic mechanism for cardiac lesions in cattle affected by copper deficiency. Because of the possible existence of oxidative distress caused by low levels of copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase and cytochrome oxidase, ultrastructural and histological lesions have been evaluated in the heart of bovines in which a Cu deficiency had been induced using high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet. Our results indicated that copper deficiency produces significant damage in myocardium with high levels of lipid oxidation and a significant reduction in copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase activity leading to an oxidative distress situation. However, cytochrome oxidase activity was not significantly reduced. Histological observation revealed a significant increase in the amount of connective tissue, enlarged basement membranes of myocytes, and numerous Anichkov cells, in the hearts of deficient animals. Ultrastructural observation showed a significant enhancement in the mitochondrial volume density, with presence of lesions such as swelling and cristae disruption. We conclude that copper deficiency in bovines causes morphological lesions in the heart due to an oxidative damage produced by copper-dependent enzyme alterations.

R. W. I. Olivares, G. C. Postma, A. Schapira, D. E. Iglesias, L. B. Valdez, E. Breininger, P. D. Gazzaneo, and L. Minatel,Biochemical and Morphological Alterations in Hearts of Copper-Deficient Bovines, Biological trace element research, 2019, 189, 447-455.

 

COPPER

Relative bioavailability of organic and hydroxy copper sources in growing steers fed a high antagonist diet1

To assess relative bioavailability (RBV) of hydroxy and organic Cu sources compared with CuSO4 in steers fed a high Cu antagonist diet, 84 steers were stratified by BW to pens randomly assigned to dietary treatments for 90 d. Steers received a common corn silage-based diet supplemented with Cu antagonists (diet analyzed 0.25% S; 6.8 mg  Mo/kg DM). Supplemental (SUPP) Cu treatments included: control (CON; no SUPP Cu), low or high inorganic (ING5 or ING10; 5 or 10 mg Cu/kg DM from CuSO4; Old Bridge Chemical Inc., Old Bridge, NJ, USA), low or high organic (ORG5 or ORG10; 5 or 10 mg Cu/kg DM from Cu lysine; CuPlex 100, ZinPro Corp., Eden Prairie, MN), and low or high hydroxy (HYD5 or HYD10; 5 or 10 mg Cu/kg DM; IntelliBond CII, Micronutrients USA LLC, Indianapolis, IN).

 

Body weights were recorded on days -7, -6, 28, 56, 84, and 85, and plasma samples collected on days -7, 28, 56, and 85. Liver samples were collected to start and end the trial. Data were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS and the model included treatment with initial liver Cu values used as a covariate in analysis of final liver Cu. Contrast statements were used to separate treatment means: 0 vs. 5 mg SUPP Cu/kg DM, 0 vs. 10 mg SUPP Cu/kg DM, 5 vs. 10 mg SUPP Cu/kg DM, HYD vs. ORG, HYD vs. ING, and ORG vs. ING. Initial liver Cu concentrations were similar across all treatment comparisons (P >/= 0.22).

 

Final liver Cu concentrations were lesser in CON compared with either 5 or 10 mg Cu/kg DM (P

 

There was a treatment x time interaction (P

 

Assessment of RBV was conducted for liver and plasma Cu concentrations using a slope-ratio assay in the GLM procedure. The RBV of Cu tended (P = 0.07) to be increased in HYD (112%) compared with ING (100%) for liver Cu values, but RBV was similar for all other source comparisons based on liver and plasma Cu values (P >/= 0.22).

 

These data suggest in steers fed high antagonist diets hydroxy Cu may be more available. Based on plasma and liver Cu concentrations, supplementation of 10 mg Cu/kg DM is needed to maintain Cu status in cattle fed diets high in S and  Mo.

K. R. VanValin, O. N. Genther-Schroeder, S. B. Laudert, and S. L. Hansen,Relative bioavailability of organic and hydroxy copper sources in growing steers fed a high antagonist diet1, Journal of animal science, 2019, 97, 1375-1383.

 

 

COPPER

Decrease lysyl oxidase activity in hearts of copper-deficient bovines

Background: Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a metalloenzyme that requires Cu as a cofactor and it is responsible for the formation of collagen and elastin cross-linking. The objective of this work was to measure the LOX enzyme activity in the heart of bovines with Cu deficiency induced by high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet. Methods: Eighteen myocardial samples were obtained from Cu-deficient (n = 9) and control (n = 9) Holstein bovines during two similar assays. The samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -70 ?C to measure enzymatic activity. A commercial kit was used, following producer instructions. Results: The results showed that LOX activity from the hearts of Cu-deficient bovines is 29 % lower than the ones of control bovines, being this difference statistically significant (p = 0.03). Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report that determined LOX enzymatic activity in bovine heart of Cu-deficient animals. The microscopic alterations found in these animals in our previous work, could be explained by a diminished LOX activity. The results are in agreement with other authors, who found a relationship between LOX activity and dietary Cu intake. The information provided by this work could help to clarify the pathogenesis of cardiac lesions in cattle with dietary Cu deficiency.

G. C. Postma, C. N. Nicastro, L. B. Valdez, I. A. R. Mikusic, A. Grecco, and L. Minatel,Decrease lysyl oxidase activity in hearts of copper-deficient bovines, Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 2021, 65. 126715

Chronic copper toxicosis in a crossbred heifer calf

An 8-mo-old, crossbred, heifer calf was presented to the Heeke Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory with a history of ataxia and altered mentation. Grossly, the liver was diffusely yellow-orange, turgid, and exuded watery, thin blood on cut section. The cortex and medulla in both kidneys were diffusely and markedly dark brown to black. The urinary bladder was filled with dark red urine. Histologically, centrilobular hepatocellular degeneration was observed, but these sections lacked necrosis. In the kidney, numerous cortical tubules contained intraluminal bright eosinophilic fluid and red-orange granular casts that stained positive for hemoglobin with the Dunn-Thompson method. The gross and histologic lesions supported a high level of suspicion for copper toxicosis. Feed and water samples from the farm were submitted for mineral analysis. The copper concentration in the feed was 118 mg/kg, and the molybdenum concentration was 0.9 mg/kg. Chronic copper toxicosis is rarely reported in cattle. The gross lesions in our case are a departure from, although similar to, previously reported cases, including lack of histologic hepatocellular necrosis. Collectively, gross and histologic lesions were compatible with copper toxicosis in this calf, and copper concentrations in the feed samples suggest a feed-mixing error.

A. Wong, C. R. Wilson-Frank, S. B. Hooser, and G. N. Burcham,Chronic copper toxicosis in a crossbred heifer calf, Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc, 2020, 32, 458-462.

Characteristic features of molybdenum, copper, tungsten and rhenium accumulation in the environment

The article deals with the assessment of biogenic migration of molybdenum and other trace elements in ore and background conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the specific features of copper and/or molybdenum accumulation rates in animals against the background of various tungsten and rhenium content levels in the environment and animal feeds, as well as possible metals incorporation into XO-XDH of cow milk. The field biogeochemical studies were performed in summer 2009, 2012, and 2018 in ore landscapes of W-Mo deposits (Tyrnyauz) and background areas of the North Caucasus with the selection of breeds, soils, natural water, plants, animal blood, and dairy products. For comparison, dairy products from the Moscow region were also examined. It was established that metals accumulated not only in soils but also in pasture plants. High content of molybdenum in the blood of cows in ore regions accompanied by a sharp decrease in the concentration of copper was noted. The concentration of studied metals in buttermilk in ore regions increased by 5-10 times in comparison with the control zone. When studying W-Mo ore landscapes of the North Caucasus (Tyrnyauz), the tungsten and rhenium were found to be capable of incorporation into the xanthine enzyme fractions (oxidase) in animals. This fact was discovered for the first time. In the case of an increase in the content of molybdenum and/or tungsten (rhenium) in the environment, the migration of the latter metals is significantly enhanced in ore conditions.

V. Ermakov, V. Safonov, and D. Dogadkin,Characteristic features of molybdenum, copper, tungsten and rhenium accumulation in the environment, Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 2021, 6.

 

The Combinations of Sulfur and Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity in Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat

To assess the impacts of sulfur (S) and molybdenum (Mo) fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat in copper (Cu)-polluted meadow, and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture, fertilizer treatments and grazing experiments were carried out in Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. 24 hm2 Cu-polluted meadows were fenced and randomly divided into four groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm2/replication): (1) control group, no fertilizer; 2 treatment groups, applied 1 kg Mo+40 kg S, 2 kg Mo+80 kg S, and 3 kg Mo+120 kg S per hectare for group I, group II, and group III, respectively. Seventy-two healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 30.9 ± 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into 4 groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the tested pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the contents of N, S, Mn, Zn, and Mo in herbage in fertilized pastures were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in herbage in fertilized pastures were lower than those in control group (P < 0.01). There were no differences among the fertilized pastures (P > 0.05). The contents of Mn, Zn, Mo, and S in serum and liver in the treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in serum and liver in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). There was no difference in Fe and Co contents in herbage, serum, and liver among the four groups (P > 0.05). The levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in the treatment goats and the activities of SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp in serum were higher than those in control goats (P < 0.01). The contents of MDA in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of serum Cu and Mo, and liver Cu in group III were lower than those in group I and group II (P < 0.01). Taken together, the combinations of S and Mo fertilization did not influence the mineral contents in herbage, serum, and liver, but reduced the toxicity of Cu in Cu-polluted grassland and improved antioxidant capacity in grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures.

Y. Li, J. He, L. Luo, and Y. Wang,The Combinations of Sulfur and Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity in Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat, Biol Trace Elem Res, 2021.

  

Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity of Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat on Copper-Contaminated Pasture

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element, but excessive Cu intake can induce poor performance and Cu poisoning and result in various health problems. Cu and molybdenum (Mo) antagonize each other in vivo. Therefore, Mo can reduce the absorption and utilization of Cu. The aims of this study were to investigate the impacts of Mo fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat on Cu-polluted meadow and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture. Fertilization and grazing experiments were carried out in Liangshan Yi Nationality Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. Cu-polluted meadows of 12 hm(2) were fenced, and randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm(2)/replication), control group and treatment group, fed with basic diets supplemented with 0 and 3 kg Mo/hm(2) [ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, (NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O], respectively. In the current study, 36 healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 32.8 +/- 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into two groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the experimental pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the concentration of Mo in soil in treatment group was 96.28 mg/kg, far exceeding the normal levels. At days 30 and 60, the levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in treatment group and the activities of serum SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The MDA content in treatment group was lower than that in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu in blood and liver in treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Zn and Mo in blood and liver in treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The Mn content in liver in treatment group was higher than that in control animals (P < 0.01). These results indicated that fertilization of (NH4)6Mo7O24 not only markedly influenced the mineral contents in blood and liver, but also extremely improved antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures and relieved the damage caused by Cu pollution.

Y. F. Li, X. Y. Shen, F. Y. Liu, L. Luo, and Y. C. Wang,Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity of Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat on Copper-Contaminated Pasture, Biological Trace Element Research, 2021, 1-8.

           

The Combinations of Sulfur and Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity in Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat

To assess the impacts of sulfur (S) and molybdenum (Mo) fertilization on antioxidant capacity of grazing Nanjiang brown goat in copper (Cu)-polluted meadow, and explore the control methods of Cu pollution in natural pasture, fertilizer treatments and grazing experiments were carried out in Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of the Western Sichuan Plateau, Sichuan Province, Southwest China. 24 hm(2) Cu-polluted meadows were fenced and randomly divided into four groups (3 replications/group, 2 hm(2)/replication): (1) control group, no fertilizer; (2) treatment groups, applied 1 kg Mo+40 kg S, 2 kg Mo+80 kg S, and 3 kg Mo+120 kg S per hectare for group I, group II, and group III, respectively. Seventy-two healthy Nanjiang brown goats (1 year old, 30.9 +/- 1.1 kg) were randomly divided into 4 groups (3 replications/group, 6 goats/replication) and assigned to the tested pastures. The grazing experiment lasted for 60 days. The results showed that the contents of N, S, Mn, Zn, and Mo in herbage in fertilized pastures were higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in herbage in fertilized pastures were lower than those in control group (P < 0.01). There were no differences among the fertilized pastures (P > 0.05). The contents of Mn, Zn, Mo, and S in serum and liver in the treatment goats were higher than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of Cu and Se in serum and liver in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). There was no difference in Fe and Co contents in herbage, serum, and liver among the four groups (P > 0.05). The levels of Hb, RBC, and PCV in blood in the treatment goats and the activities of SOD, GSH-Px, T-AOC, CAT, and Cp in serum were higher than those in control goats (P < 0.01). The contents of MDA in the treatment goats were lower than those in control animals (P < 0.01). The contents of serum Cu and Mo, and liver Cu in group III were lower than those in group I and group II (P < 0.01). Taken together, the combinations of S and Mo fertilization did not influence the mineral contents in herbage, serum, and liver, but reduced the toxicity of Cu in Cu-polluted grassland and improved antioxidant capacity in grazing Nanjiang brown goat from fertilized pastures.

Y. F. Li, J. He, L. Luo, and Y. C. Wang,The Combinations of Sulfur and Molybdenum Fertilization Improved Antioxidant Capacity in Grazing Nanjiang Brown Goat, Biological Trace Element Research, 2021, 1-9.

  

Molybdenum Exposure in Drinking Water Vs Feed Impacts Apparent Absorption of Copper Differently in Beef Cattle Consuming a High-Forage Diet

Twelve Angus steers were utilized to investigate the influence of molybdenum (Mo) in drinking water or feed on apparent absorption and retention of copper (Cu) and Mo. Steers were fed a low-quality grass hay diet for 14 days. Steers were then housed in individual metabolism stalls and blocked by body weight and dry matter intake (DMI) and randomly assigned within block to one of three treatments. Treatments consisted of (1) control (no supplemental Mo), 2 5.0 mg Mo/kg DM from sodium molybdate dihydrate (Mo-diet), and (3) 1.5 mg Mo/L from sodium molybdate dihydrate delivered in the drinking water (Mo-water). Total fecal and urine output were then collected for 5 days. Dry matter, Cu and water intake, and DM digestibility were similar across treatments. Molybdenum intake was greater (P < 0.05) in Mo-water and Mo-diet steers when compared to controls but similar between Mo-water and Mo-diet steers. Apparent absorption and retention of Cu were greater (P < 0.05) in controls when compared to Mo-diet supplemented steers. Apparent absorption and retention of Cu in steers in the Mo-water treatment did not differ from controls or those receiving the Mo-diet. Molybdenum-diet and Mo-water supplemented steers had similar apparent absorption and retention of Cu. Apparent absorption and retention of Mo (% of Mo intake) was greater in controls when compared to Mo-supplemented steers. These data indicate that Mo consumed in water may impact Cu absorption and retention to a lesser extent than Mo supplemented in the diet.

M. P. Thorndyke, O. Guimaraes, N. M. Tillquist, J. T. Zervoudakis, and T. E. Engle,Molybdenum Exposure in Drinking Water Vs Feed Impacts Apparent Absorption of Copper Differently in Beef Cattle Consuming a High-Forage Diet, Biol Trace Elem Res, 2021, 199, 2913-2918.

Previously online. NOV 2020.

 

Studies of High Molybdenum-Induced Copper Deprivation in P. przewalskii on the Qinghai Lake Pasture in China

The Przewalski's Gazelles (P. przewalskii) are affected by disorders that are characterized by deprived appetites, pica, emaciation and dyskinesia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility of high molybdenum (Mo) in forage leading to copper (Cu) deprivation. The mineral contents in forage, soil, and samples of hair and blood from affected ranges were compared to healthy pasture. Blood parameters were also determined. Our results showed that the mean content of Mo in forage and soil in studied pasture was 5.17 and 4.17 mu g/g, respectively. The Cu to Mo ratio in forage from affected and healthy areas was 1.26 and 5.89 mu g/g, respectively. The Cu concentrations in hair and blood from gazelles in affected pasture were extremely lower (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected animals. The Mo contents in hair were higher (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected gazelles. The levels of Hb, RBC, PCV, MCV, and MCH in unaffected gazelles were significantly lower (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected gazelles. The levels of TP, ALB and GLB in blood were significantly lower (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected gazelles, while the levels of AST, LDH, CPK and ALP in serum were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected gazelles. The activities in serum T-AOC, SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT in affected gazelles were extremely lower (p < 0.01) than those in unaffected gazelles, while MDA was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that in unaffected gazelles. Supplementation in copper sulphate (CuSO4) has prevented and cured this disorder. In summary, high molybdenum in feed and soil may lead to secondary Cu deficiency in gazelles, which can be alleviated by supplement of copper sulfate.

B. W. Zhai, K. Zhao, F. Y. Liu, and X. Y. Shen,Studies of High Molybdenum-Induced Copper Deprivation in P. przewalskii on the Qinghai Lake Pasture in China, Applied Sciences-Basel, 2021, 11.

THIOMOLYBDATE-.Bis-choline tetrathiomolybdate prevents copper-induced blood-brain barrier damage

In Wilson disease, excessive copper accumulates in patients' livers and may, upon serum leakage, severely affect the brain according to current viewpoints. Present remedies aim at avoiding copper toxicity by chelation, for example, by D-penicillamine DPA  or bis-choline tetrathiomolybdate ALXN1840 , the latter with a very high copper affinity. Hence, ALXN1840 may potentially avoid neurological deterioration that frequently occurs upon DPA treatment. As the etiology of such worsening is unclear, we reasoned that copper loosely bound to albumin, that is, mimicking a potential liver copper leakage into blood, may damage cells that constitute the blood-brain barrier, which was found to be the case in an in vitro model using primary porcine brain capillary endothelial cells. Such blood-brain barrier damage was avoided by ALXN1840, plausibly due to firm protein embedding of the chelator bound copper, but not by DPA. Mitochondrial protection was observed, a prerequisite for blood-brain barrier integrity. Thus, high-affinity copper chelators may minimize such deterioration in the treatment of neurologic Wilson disease.

S. Borchard, S. Raschke, K. M. Zak, C. Eberhagen, C. Einer, E. Weber, S. M. Müller, B. Michalke, J. Lichtmannegger, A. Wieser, T. Rieder, G. M. Popowicz, J. Adamski, M. Klingenspor, A. H. Coles, R. Viana, M. H. Vendelbo, T. D. Sandahl, T. Schwerdtle, T. Plitz, and H. Zischka,Bis-choline tetrathiomolybdate prevents copper-induced blood-brain barrier damage, Life Sci Alliance, 2022, 5.

           

COPPER

Decrease lysyl oxidase activity in hearts of copper-deficient bovines

BACKGROUND: Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a metalloenzyme that requires Cu as a cofactor and it is responsible for the formation of collagen and elastin cross-linking. The objective of this work was to measure the LOX enzyme activity in the heart of bovines with Cu deficiency induced by high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet.

METHODS: Eighteen myocardial samples were obtained from Cu-deficient (n = 9) and control (n = 9) Holstein bovines during two similar assays. The samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at -70 °C to measure enzymatic activity. A commercial kit was used, following producer instructions. RESULTS: The results showed that LOX activity from the hearts of Cu-deficient bovines is 29 % lower than the ones of control bovines, being this difference statistically significant (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first report that determined LOX enzymatic activity in bovine heart of Cu-deficient animals. The microscopic alterations found in these animals in our previous work, could be explained by a diminished LOX activity. The results are in agreement with other authors, who found a relationship between LOX activity and dietary Cu intake. The information provided by this work could help to clarify the pathogenesis of cardiac lesions in cattle with dietary Cu deficiency.

G. C. Postma, C. N. Nicastro, L. B. Valdez, I. A. Rukavina Mikusic, A. Grecco, and L. Minatel,Decrease lysyl oxidase activity in hearts of copper-deficient bovines, J Trace Elem Med Biol, 2021, 65, 126715.

 

COPPER

Copper Supplementation, A Challenge in Cattle

Simple Summary: Copper supplementation in ruminants deserves special attention because of the narrow margin between deficiency and toxicity, both of which ruminants are susceptible to suffering from. Supplementation of copper above requirements to prevent deficiency has led to an increased number of outbreaks of copper toxicity being reported in recent years, particularly in dairy cattle. In this paper we describe the key points of copper metabolism in cattle that should be taken into consideration to guarantee an adequate copper supply while preventing toxic effects.

Abstract: Ensuring adequate copper supplementation in ruminants is a challenging task due to the complexity of copper metabolism in these animals. The three-way interaction between copper, molybdenum and sulphur (Cu-Mo-S) in the rumen makes ruminants, particularly cattle, very susceptible to suffering from secondary copper deficiency. Paradoxically, excessive copper storage in the liver to prevent deficiency becomes a hazard when ruminants are fed copper-supplemented diets even slightly above requirements. While cattle were traditionally thought to be relatively tolerant of copper accumulation, and reports of copper poisoning were until recently somewhat rare, in recent years an increased number of episodes/outbreaks of copper toxicity in cattle, particularly in dairy cattle, have been reported worldwide. The growing number of lethal cases reported seems to indicate that copper intoxication is spreading silently in dairy herds, urging the development of strategies to monitor herd copper status and improve farmers' awareness of copper toxicity. In fact, monitoring studies carried out on numerous samples collected from culled animals in slaughterhouses and/or diagnostic laboratories have demonstrated that large numbers of animals have hepatic copper concentrations well above adequate levels in many different countries. These trends are undoubtedly due to copper supplementation aimed at preventing copper deficiency, as dietary copper intake from pasture alone is unlikely to cause such high levels of accumulation in liver tissue. The reasons behind the copper overfeeding in cattle are related both to a poor understanding of copper metabolism and the theory of "if adding a little produces a response, then adding a lot will produce a better response". Contrary to most trace elements, copper in ruminants has narrow margins of safety, which must also be formulated considering the concentrations of copper antagonists in the diet. This review paper aims to provide nutritionists/veterinary practitioners with the key points about copper metabolism in cattle to guarantee an adequate copper supply while preventing excessive hepatic copper loading, which requires a la carte copper supplementation for each herd.

M. Lopez-Alonso, and M. Miranda,Copper Supplementation, A Challenge in Cattle, Animals, 2020, 10(10), 1890; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10101890

 

 

Molybdenum Exposure in Drinking Water Vs Feed Impacts Apparent Absorption of Copper Differently in Beef Cattle Consuming a High-Forage Diet

Twelve Angus steers were utilized to investigate the influence of Molybdenum (Mo) in drinking water or feed on apparent absorption and retention of copper (Cu) and Mo. Steers were fed a low-quality grass hay diet for 14 days. Steers were then housed in individual metabolism stalls and blocked by body weight and dry matter intake (DMI) and randomly assigned within block to one of three treatments. Treatments consisted of (1) control (no supplemental Mo), (2) 5.0 mg Mo/kg DM from sodium molybdate dihydrate (Mo-diet), and (3) 1.5 mg Mo/L from sodium molybdate dihydrate delivered in the drinking water (Mo-water). Total fecal and urine output were then collected for 5 days. Dry matter, Cu and water intake, and DM digestibility were similar across treatments. Molybdenum intake was greater (P < 0.05) in Mo-water and Mo-diet steers when compared to controls but similar between Mo-water and Mo-diet steers. Apparent absorption and retention of Cu were greater (P < 0.05) in controls when compared to Mo-diet supplemented steers. Apparent absorption and retention of Cu in steers in the Mo-water treatment did not differ from controls or those receiving the Mo-diet. Molybdenum-diet and Mo-water supplemented steers had similar apparent absorption and retention of Cu. Apparent absorption and retention of Mo (% of Mo intake) was greater in controls when compared to Mo-supplemented steers. These data indicate that Mo consumed in water may impact Cu absorption and retention to a lesser extent than Mo supplemented in the diet.

M. P. Thorndyke, O. Guimaraes, N. M. Tillquist, J. T. Zervoudakis, and T. E. Engle,Molybdenum Exposure in Drinking Water Vs Feed Impacts Apparent Absorption of Copper Differently in Beef Cattle Consuming a High-Forage Diet, Biological Trace Element Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12011-020-02440-0

             

           

             

Dietary starch concentration alters reticular pH, hepatic copper concentration, and performance in lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows receiving added dietary sulfur and Molybdenum

To test the hypothesis that Cu metabolism in dairy cows is affected by dietary starch concentration and additional sulfur S and Mo, 60 Holstein-Friesian dairy cows that were [mean ± standard error (SE)] 33 ± 2.5 days postcalving and yielding 41 ± 0.9 kg of milk/d were fed 1 of 4 diets in a 2 × 2 factorial design experiment over a 14-wk period. The 4 diets had a Cu concentration of approximately 15 mg/kg of dry matter (DM), a grass silage-to-corn silage ratio of 1:1, a dietary starch concentration of either 150 g/kg of DM (low starch, LS) or 220 g/kg of DM (high starch, HS), and were either unsupplemented (-) or supplemented (+) with an additional 0.8 g of S/kg of DM and 4.4 mg of Mo/kg of DM. We found an effect of dietary starch concentration on mean reticular pH, which was 0.15 pH units lower in cows fed the high starch diets. The addition of S and Mo decreased intake by 1.8 kg of DM/d, an effect that was evident beginning in wk 1 of the study. Mean milk and fat yields were 37.0 and 1.51 kg/d, respectively, and were not affected by dietary treatment. We found an effect of dietary starch concentration on milk protein concentration, protein yield, and urea nitrogen, which were increased by 2.8 g/kg, 0.09 kg/d, and 2.1 mg/dL, respectively, in cows fed the high starch diets. We found no effect of dietary treatment on either cow live weight or body condition. Mean plasma Cu, Fe, and Zn concentrations were 15.3, 42.1, and 14.4 µmol/L, respectively, and were not affected by dietary treatment. In contrast, we found an interaction between dietary starch concentration and Cu antagonists on plasma Mo, where feeding additional S and Mo increased plasma Mo to a greater extent when cows were offered the high versus low starch diet. We also found that increasing dietary starch concentration increased serum ceruloplasmin activity, but serum haptoglobin concentration was not affected by dietary treatment. The addition of S and Mo decreased hepatic Cu concentration, whereas in cows fed the higher dietary starch concentration, hepatic Cu concentration was increased over the period of our study. We concluded that increasing dietary starch concentration decreases rumen pH and increases milk protein yield and hepatic Cu concentration, whereas feeding additional S and Mo decreases intake and hepatic Cu concentration.

J. H. McCaughern, A. M. Mackenzie, and L. A. Sinclair,Dietary starch concentration alters reticular pH, hepatic copper concentration, and performance in lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows receiving added dietary sulfur and Molybdenum, J Dairy Sci, 2020, 103, 9024-9036.

COPPER DAIRY COWS

Dietary starch concentration alters reticular pH, hepatic copper concentration, and performance in lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows receiving added dietary sulfur and molybdenum

To test the hypothesis that Cu metabolism in dairy cows is affected by dietary starch concentration and additional sulfur S and Mo, 60 Holstein-Friesian dairy cows that were [mean ± standard error (SE)] 33 ± 2.5 days postcalving and yielding 41 ± 0.9 kg of milk/d were fed 1 of 4 diets in a 2 × 2 factorial design experiment over a 14-wk period. The 4 diets had a Cu concentration of approximately 15 mg/kg of dry matter (DM), a grass silage-to-corn silage ratio of 1:1, a dietary starch concentration of either 150 g/kg of DM (low starch, LS) or 220 g/kg of DM (high starch, HS), and were either unsupplemented (-) or supplemented (+) with an additional 0.8 g of S/kg of DM and 4.4 mg of Mo/kg of DM. We found an effect of dietary starch concentration on mean reticular pH, which was 0.15 pH units lower in cows fed the high starch diets. The addition of S and Mo decreased intake by 1.8 kg of DM/d, an effect that was evident beginning in wk 1 of the study. Mean milk and fat yields were 37.0 and 1.51 kg/d, respectively, and were not affected by dietary treatment. We found an effect of dietary starch concentration on milk protein concentration, protein yield, and urea nitrogen, which were increased by 2.8 g/kg, 0.09 kg/d, and 2.1 mg/dL, respectively, in cows fed the high starch diets. We found no effect of dietary treatment on either cow live weight or body condition. Mean plasma Cu, Fe, and Zn concentrations were 15.3, 42.1, and 14.4 µmol/L, respectively, and were not affected by dietary treatment. In contrast, we found an interaction between dietary starch concentration and Cu antagonists on plasma Mo, where feeding additional S and Mo increased plasma Mo to a greater extent when cows were offered the high versus low starch diet. We also found that increasing dietary starch concentration increased serum ceruloplasmin activity, but serum haptoglobin concentration was not affected by dietary treatment. The addition of S and Mo decreased hepatic Cu concentration, whereas in cows fed the higher dietary starch concentration, hepatic Cu concentration was increased over the period of our study. We concluded that increasing dietary starch concentration decreases rumen pH and increases milk protein yield and hepatic Cu concentration, whereas feeding additional S and Mo decreases intake and hepatic Cu concentration.

J. H. McCaughern, A. M. Mackenzie, and L. A. Sinclair,Dietary starch concentration alters reticular pH, hepatic copper concentration, and performance in lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows receiving added dietary sulfur and molybdenum, J Dairy Sci, 2020, 103, 9024-9036.

           

COPPER

18 Dft calculations of the structure and stability of copper clusters on MoS2  

Layered materials, such as MoS2, are being intensely studied due to their interesting properties and wide variety of potential applications. These materials are also interesting as supports for low-dimensional metals for catalysis, while recent work has shown increased interest in using 2D materials in the electronics industry as a Cu diffusion barrier in semiconductor device interconnects. The interaction between different metal structures and MoS2 monolayers is therefore of significant importance and first-principles simulations can probe aspects of this interaction not easily accessible to experiment. Previous theoretical studies have focused particularly on the adsorption of a range of metallic elements, including first-row transition metals, as well as Ag and Au. However, most studies have examined single-atom adsorption or adsorbed nanoparticles of noble metals. This means there is a knowledge gap in terms of thin film nucleation on 2D materials. To begin addressing this issue, we present in this paper a first-principles density functional theory (DFT) study of the adsorption of small Cu-n (n = 1-4) structures on 2D MoS2 as a model system. We find on a perfect MoS2 monolayer that a single Cu atom prefers an adsorption site above the Mo atom. With increasing nanocluster size the nanocluster binds more strongly when Cu atoms adsorb atop the S atoms. Stability is driven by the number of Cu-Cu interactions and the distance between adsorption sites, with no obvious preference towards 2D or 3D structures. The introduction of a single S vacancy in the monolayer enhances the copper binding energy, although some Cu-n nanoclusters are actually unstable. The effect of the vacancy is localised around the vacancy site. Finally, on both the pristine and the defective MoS2 monolayer, the density-of-states analysis shows that the adsorption of Cu introduces new electronic states as a result of partial Cu oxidation, but the metallic character of Cu nanoclusters is preserved.

C. L. Nies, and M. Nolan, Dft calculations of the structure and stability of copper clusters on mos2, Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology, 2020, 11, 391-406.

 

Ammonium tetrathiomolybdate treatment of copper-associated hepatopathy in dogs

Copper‐associated hepatopathy (CAH) is a common cause of liver disease in dogs. Although d‐penicillamine can be an effective treatment, some dogs fail treatment or develop adverse effects. Ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) has been used to treat pathologic copper accumulation in other species, but its therapeutic potential for CAH is unknown.

Objectives

To investigate short‐term safety and efficacy of TTM for treatment of CAH.

Animals

Ten dogs with CAH.

Methods

Prospective study. All dogs were treated with TTM PO [Per os, oral administration] for 6 weeks, and hepatic biopsies were performed after the treatment course. Dog experiencing initial decreases in hepatic copper concentrations ([Cu]H) received 6 additional weeks of TTM treatment and underwent 1 additional biopsy. Physical and laboratory examinations were performed every 2 weeks for study duration.

Results

Eight of 10 dogs had decreases in [Cu]H. Compared to baseline (median, 1606 μg/g; range, 572‐5158 μg/g), [Cu]H were decreased at 6 weeks (1033 μg/g, 450‐2975 μg/g; P = .04) and 12 weeks (931 μg/g, 218‐1677 μg/g; P = .02). Hepatic molybdenum concentrations increased >50‐fold (P < 0.001). Changes in histologic scores and hematologic and biochemical test results were variable and not significantly different from baseline. One dog developed presumed immune‐mediated anemia and thrombocytopenia, but it was unclear if this was related to TTM administration.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results suggest that TTM can effectively decrease [Cu]H in some dogs with CAH. Larger studies are needed to determine the overall safety and efficacy of TTM for treating CAH and how it compares with current treatments.

D. K. Langlois, J. R. Querubin, W. D. Schall, N. C. Nelson, and R. C. Smedley,Ammonium tetrathiomolybdate treatment of copper-associated hepatopathy in dogs, Journal of veterinary internal medicine, 2019.  

https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.15474

OPEN ACCESS

[“Copper storage hepatopathy is a condition caused by an abnormal accumulation of copper in the animal's liver, which leads to progressive damage and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). This condition may be secondary to a primary disease or the result of genetic-based abnormal copper metabolism.”] https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/endocrine/c_multi_copper_storage_hepatopathy

 

COPPER

Biochemical and morphological alterations in hearts of copper-deficient bovines

Copper deficiency is an important disease of cattle that produces several clinical signs and lesions, due to alterations in copper-dependent enzymes. One of the organs affected by this deficiency is the heart (falling disease), but nevertheless, these cardiac lesions have not been extensively studied in bovines. The aim of this work was to propose a possible pathogenic mechanism for cardiac lesions in cattle affected by copper deficiency. Because of the possible existence of oxidative distress caused by low levels of copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase and cytochrome oxidase, ultrastructural and histological lesions have been evaluated in the heart of bovines in which a Cu deficiency had been induced using high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet. Our results indicated that copper deficiency produces significant damage in myocardium with high levels of lipid oxidation and a significant reduction in copper-zinc-superoxide dismutase activity leading to an oxidative distress situation. However, cytochrome oxidase activity was not significantly reduced. Histological observation revealed a significant increase in the amount of connective tissue, enlarged basement membranes of myocytes, and numerous Anichkov cells, in the hearts of deficient animals. Ultrastructural observation showed a significant enhancement in the mitochondrial volume density, with presence of lesions such as swelling and cristae disruption. We conclude that copper deficiency in bovines causes morphological lesions in the heart due to an oxidative damage produced by copper-dependent enzyme alterations.

R. W. I. Olivares, G. C. Postma, A. Schapira, D. E. Iglesias, L. B. Valdez, E. Breininger, P. D. Gazzaneo, and L. Minatel, Biochemical and morphological alterations in hearts of copper-deficient bovines, Biol Trace Elem Res, 2018.

 

COPPER

Effect of sodium molybdate supplementation on high concentrations of Cu in liver of yearling bulls

AIM: To determine the impact of sodium molybdate treatment, given weekly, on concentrations of Cu in liver, activity of liver enzymes, and weight gain over 4 weeks, in yearling bulls with elevated concentrations of Cu in liver.

METHODS: The study was carried on two commercial grazing farms in the Otago region of New Zealand in yearling Friesian bulls (n=150 on Farm A and n=49 on Farm B) with mean concentration of Cu in liver >3,000 mu mol/kg fresh weight. On Day 0, all animals were weighed and half were systematically allocated to treatment with sodium molybdate (3mg/kg liveweight on Farm A and 7mg/kg liveweight on Farm B); the remainder received no treatment (Control). Sodium molybdate was given as a drench weekly for 4 weeks and all animals were weighed again on Day 28. Ten animals on each farm (five from each treatment group) were systematically selected for blood sampling and liver biopsies on Days 0 and 28. Samples were analysed for concentrations of Cu in plasma, vitamin B-12 in serum, activities of -glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase and glutamate dehydrogenase in serum, and concentrations of Cu and vitamin B-12 in liver. Separate multivariable linear models were used to compare the change in outcome variables between Days 0 and 28 between bulls that had been drenched with sodium molybdate or not.

RESULTS: On Farm A, mean concentrations of Cu in liver on Day 28, as a percentage of concentrations on Day 0, for the control group was 55 (95% CI=40-73)% and for the treatment group was 73 (95% CI=43-111)%. On Farm B, the equivalent mean for the control group was 75 (95% CI=42-131)% and for the treatment group was 85 (95% CI=38-134)%. The multivariable linear models indicated that the changes in concentrations of Cu in liver, activities of liver enzymes and weight gain between Days 0 and 28 did not differ between the bulls treated or not with sodium molybdate (p>0.18).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Treatment with sodium molybdate in one bolus at weekly intervals for 4 weeks did not affect concentrations of Cu in liver, activity of liver enzymes or weight gain in animals with high concentrations of Cu liver on two farms.

E. L. Cuttance, R. A. Laven, and A. Watts,Effect of sodium molybdate supplementation on high concentrations of Cu in liver of yearling bulls, New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 2018, 66, 194-198.

 

COPPER

Comparison of trace mineral repletion strategies in feedlot steers to overcome diets containing high concentrations of sulfur and molybdenum

To compare trace mineral (TM) repletion in feedlot steers after depletion by S and Mo, 72 Red Angus steers blocked by BW (253 +/- 14 kg) were assigned (6 steers per pen, fed via GrowSafe bunks) to corn silage depletion diets (depletion, DEP) supplemented with NRC (1996) recommended concentrations of Cu, Mn, Se, and Zn (CON) or supplemented with 0.3% S (CaSO4), 2 mg of Mo/kg dry matter (DM), and no added Cu, Mn, Zn, or Se (antagonist, ANT). Three 62 d TM repletion strategies (repletion, REP) were applied within DEP diets on day 89: 1) Multimin90 injection (contains Cu, Mn, Se, Zn) and 100% of recommended Cu, Mn, Zn, and Se from inorganic sources (ITM), 2) saline injection and 150% of recommended TM from inorganic sources (ING), or 3) saline injection and 150% of recommended TM provided as 25% organic and 75% inorganic sources (BLEND). Subcutaneous injections were given at 1 mL/68 kg BW. Inorganic sources were Cu, Mn, and Zn SO4, and sodium selenite, and organic sources were Availa Cu, Mn and Zn, and SelPlex Se. Repletion period liver and blood were collected on day -10, 14, 28, and 42 and data were analyzed as a 2 x 3 factorial (n = 12 steers per treatment) using Proc Glimmix of SAS with plasma and liver analytes analyzed as repeated measures. Liver Cu, Se, and Mn were decreased (P < 0.01) by ANT during DEP. There were no DEP x REP x day interactions in liver TM (P >= 0.18). A DEP x day effect was noted for liver Cu (P < 0.01) and Mn (P = 0.07), where ANT Cu increased linearly from day 0 to day 42, CON Cu was slightly increased on day 14 and day 28, and ANT Mn was lesser than CON Mn on all days except day 42. There were REP x day effects on liver Cu (P < 0.01) and Se (P < 0.01) where status was improved by ITM by day 14, increased in BLEND by day 28, and not different by day 42. Liver Se concentrations were lesser (P < 0.01) in ANT vs. CON throughout repletion. Liver Zn was greater (P < 0.01) on day 0 than day 14, 28, and 42, and concentrations were greater on day 42 than day 28. Glutathione peroxidase activity tended to be lesser (P = 0.07) on day 14 relative to other days. Manganese superoxide dismutase activity was lesser (P < 0.01) on day 14 and 28 compared to day 0 and 42, and tended to be lesser (P = 0.06) in ANT than CON during repletion. Final body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) were not affected by treatment (P >= 0.60), and ANT decreased dry matter intake (DMI) (P = 0.04) and improved G:F (P < 0.01) during repletion. All repletion strategies were effective at increasing TM status of steers, and ITM had the most rapid recovery of Cu and Se status, followed by BLEND, and ING.

S. J. Hartman, O. N. Genther-Schroeder, and S. L. Hansen,Comparison of trace mineral repletion strategies in feedlot steers to overcome diets containing high concentrations of sulfur and molybdenum, Journal of Animal Science, 2018, 96, 2504-2515.

COPPER

Cooperative bimetallic reactivity of a heterodinuclear molybdenum-copper model of Mo-Cu CODH

The synthesis of a heterodinucleating ligand LH2 (LH2 = (E)-3-(((2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,9-dimethyl-5-((pyridin-2-ylmethylene)amino)-9H-xanth en-4-yl)amino)methyl)benzene-1,2-diol) was undertaken toward a functional model of the bimetallic active site found in Mo-Cu carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (Mo-Cu CODH), and to understand the origins of heterobimetallic cooperativity exhibited by the enzyme. LH2 features a hard potentially dianionic catechol chelate for binding Mo(VI) and a soft iminopyridine chelate for binding Cu(I). Treatment of LH2 with either Cu(I) or M(VI) (M = Mo, W) sources leads to the anticipated site-selective incorporation of the respective metals. While both [CuI(LH2)]+ and [MVIO3(L)]2- complexes are stable in the solid state, [MVIO3(L)]2- complexes disproportionate in solution to give [MVIO2(L)2](NEt4)2 complexes, with [MVIO4]2- as the by-product. The incorporation of BOTH Mo(VI) and Cu(I) into L forms a highly reactive heterobimetallic complex [MoVIO3CuI(L)](NEt4)2, whose formation and reactivity was interrogated via 1H NMR/UV-vis spectroscopy and DFT calculations. These studies reveal that the combination of the two metals triggers oxidation reactivity, in which a nucleophilic Mo((VI)) trioxo attacks Cu((I))-bound imine. The major product of the reaction is a crystallographically characterized molybdenum((VI)) complex [Mo(L')O2](NEt4) coordinated by a modified ligand L' that contains a new C-O bond in place of the imine functionality. This observed hydroxylation reactivity is consistent with the postulated first step of Mo-Cu CODH (nucleophilic attack of the Mo((VI))-oxo on the Cu((I))-bound electrophilic CO) and xanthine oxidoreductase (nucleophilic attack of Mo((VI))-oxo on the electrophilic xanthine carbon).

T. S. Hollingsworth, R. L. Hollingsworth, R. L. Lord, and S. Groysman,Cooperative bimetallic reactivity of a heterodinuclear molybdenum-copper model of Mo-Cu CODH, Dalton transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003), 2018.

 

Effect of molybdenum on other trace elementscopper

Interaction of molybdate with copper(II) especially with reference to thiomolybdates and molybdenosis in ruminaant animals. Copper-molybdenum interaction in non ruminants. Copper-molybdenum compounds.

LONG-TERM SUBCLINICAL COPPER DEFICIENCY AND IT IS INFLUENCE ON FUNCTIONS OF PARENCHYMAL ORGANS AND THE SERUM MACRO-ELEMENT DEFICIENCY IN DAIRY COWS

Copper deficiency is a mineral management disorder increasingly often diagnosed in dairy cattle herds in Poland. Diagnosis of this disorder in herds can be very difficult as subclinical deficiencies may occur over long periods of time without clear clinical symptoms. Subclinical or atypical deficiencies that long remain untreated cause major disturbances in homeostasis. Information is scarce in the literature about the changes that occur in biochemical blood parameters in the course of atypical long-term subclinical copper deficiency. This study was conducted on a group of 80 cows from farms in the central part of the Lublin region in Poland. The animals were divided into four groups: three groups with Cu deficiency (two of these groups did not receive preventive supplementation, and the third one had oral copper supplementation administered) and a control group (clinically healthy cows). Blood for the tests was collected in the same period, 6 and 12 weeks after calving and a year after the previous tests. The results obtained in the groups where no special preventive measures had been taken showed a negative influence of copper deficiency on the functional condition of organs, especially the liver and pancreas (in the final stage of the study), and on blood phosphorus concentration. Such findings were not observed in the group supplemented with a copper-rich feed additive. In this group, after only a month of being supplemented with a preparation containing copper, a 15% increase in milk yield was observed. Meanwhile, the milk yield decreased in the remaining groups.

L. Kurek, M. Olech, K. Lutnicki, T. Riha, P. Brodzki, M. Golynski, and B. Abramowicz,long-term subclinical copper deficiency and it is influence on functions of parenchymal organs and the serum macro-element deficiency in dairy cows, Journal of Elementology, 2017, 22, 1415-1425.

 

Increasing copper alters cellular elemental composition (Mo and P) of marine diatom

The elemental composition (surface adsorbed and internalized fraction of Cu, Mo and P) in marine phytoplankton was first examined in cultures of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum which were exposed to various levels of Cu concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 16 mumol/L with equivalent free [Cu2+] concentrations of 0.4-26 nmol/L.
We observed an acceleration of algal growth rates (20-40%) with increasing ambient Cu levels, as well as slightly increased levels of internalized Cu in cells (2-13 x 10-18 mol/cell) although cellular Cu mostly accumulated onto the cell surface (>50% of the total: intracellular + surface adsorbed).
In particular, we documented for the first time that the elemental composition (Mo and P) in algal cells varies dynamically in response to increased Cu levels:
(1) Cellular P, predominantly in the intracellular compartment (>95%), shows with a net consumption as indicated by a gradual decrease with increasing [Cu2+] (120-->50 x 10-15 mol P/cell) probably due to the fact that P, a backbone bioelement, is largely required in forming biological compartments such as cell membranes; and
(2) cellular Mo, predominantly encountered in the intracellular compartment, showed up to tenfold increase in concentration in the cultures exposed to Cu, with a peak accumulation of 1.1 x 10-18 mol Mo/cell occurring in the culture exposed to [Cu2+] at 3.7 nmol/L.
Such a net cellular Mo accumulation suggests that Mo might be specifically required in biological processes, probably playing a counteracting role against Cu.


Wang, D., Xia, W., Kumar, K. S., and Gao, K.,Increasing copper alters cellular elemental composition (Mo and P) of marine diatom, Ecology and evolution, 2017, 7, 3362-3371.

 

Insights into the molybdenum/copper heterometallic cluster assembly in the orange protein: probing intermolecular interactions with an artificial metal-binding ATCUN tag

Orange protein (ORP) is a small bacterial protein, of unknown function, that contains a unique molybdenum/copper heterometallic cluster, [(S2MoS2CuS2MoS2)-S-vI-S-I-S-vl](3-) (Mo/Cu), non-covalently bound. The native cluster can be reconstituted in a protein-assisted mode by the addition of Cull plus tetrathiomolybdate to apo-ORP under controlled conditions. In the work described herein, we artificially inserted the ATCUN ("amino terminus Cu and Ni") motif in the Desulfovibrio gigas ORP (Ala(1)Ser(2)His(3) followed by the native amino acid residues; modified protein abbreviated as ORP*) to increase our understanding of the Mo/Cu cluster assembly in ORP. The apo-ORP* binds Cull in a 1:1 ratio to yield Cu-II-ORP*, as clearly demonstrated by EPR (g(parallel to,perpendicular to) = 2.183, 2.042 and A(parallel to,perpendicular to)(Cu) = 207 x 10(-4) cm(-1), 19 x 10(-4) cm(-1)) and UV-visible spectroscopies (typical d-d transition bands at 520 nm, epsilon = 90 M-1 cm(-1)). The H-1 NMR spectrum shows that His, and Hiss, are significantly affected upon the addition of the Cu-II. The X-ray structure shows that these two residues are very far apart (C-alpha-C-alpha approximate to 27.9 angstrom), leading us to suggest that the metal-induced NMR perturbations are due to the interaction of two protein molecules with a single metal ion. Docking analysis supports the metal-mediated dimer formation. The subsequent tetrathiomolybdate binding, to yield the native Mo/Cu cluster, occurs only upon addition of dithiothreitol, as shown by UV-visible and NMR spectroscopies. Additionally, H-1 NMR of Ag-I-ORP* (Ag-I used as a surrogate of Cu-I) showed that Ag-I strongly binds to a native methionine sulfur atom rather than to the ATCUN site, suggesting that Cu-II and Cu-I have two different binding sites in ORP*. A detailed mechanism for the formation of the Mo/Cu cluster is discussed, suggesting that Cu-II is reduced to Cu-I and transferred from the ATCUN motif to the methionine site; finally, Cu-I is transferred to the cluster-binding region, upon the interaction of two protein molecules. This result may suggest that copper trafficking is triggered by redox-dependent coordination properties of copper in a trafficking pathway.

Maiti, B. K., Almeida, R. M., Maia, L. B., Moura, I., and Moura, J. J. G., Insights into the Molybdenum/Copper Heterometallic Cluster Assembly in the Orange Protein: Probing Intermolecular Interactions with an Artificial Metal-Binding ATCUN Tag, Inorganic chemistry, 2017, 56, 8900-8911.

Copper and molybdenum

Effects of organic and inorganic copper and sulphur supplementation on blood biochemical parameters in sheep

Minerals are essential components in the diet, exercising various functions in the animal. There are many studies to find better results for the organic sources of minerals, and one of the reasons for that is to avoid the negative interactions. The metabolic profile helps in assessment of production indices, therefore analyzes blood biochemical components.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of organic and inorganic copper and sulphur supplementation on blood biochemical parameters in sheep.

The experiment was conducted at the FZEA/USP.

Total 40 weaned sheep were divided in a completely randomized design with 10 treatments:

1) basal diet;

2) basal diet plus Mo;

3) basal diet + inorganic Cu + inorganic S;

4) basal diet + inorganic Cu + organic S;

5) basal diet + organic Cu + inorganic S;

6) basal diet + organic Cu + organic S;

7) diet plus Mo + inorganic Cu + inorganic S;

8) diet plus Mo + inorganic Cu + organic S;

9) diet plus Mo + organic Cu + inorganic S;

10) diet plus organic Cu + organic S.

According each treatment was added 10mg kg-1 MS inorganic or organic Cu or 10mg kg-1 MS Mo or 0.2% S inorganic or organic.

The animals were fed twice a day, a total of 3% of body weight.

The experiment lasted 84 days, blood was sampled every 28 days to study glucose, urea, albumin, cholesterol and triglycerides. The parameters were analyzed with factorial structure 2 x 2 x 2 (with and without Mo, organic and inorganic Cu and organic and inorganic S) and a basal diet and a basal diet plus Mo, with 5% significance.

Serum levels of glucose, urea, albumin and cholesterol showed no significant difference between treatment and time (p> 0.05). It observed means of 64.8mg dL-1; 30.0mg dl-1; 2.78mg L-1; 72.2mg dL-1 respectively for glucose, urea, albumin and cholesterol.

Serum levels of triglycerides in the treatments (28.8; 34.8; 30.8; 36.9; 34.3; 27.0; 31.6; 32.1; 34.6; 31.1mg dL-1) were influenced by interaction Cu x S, triglycerides decreased with Cu and S organic.

Conti, R. M. C., Zanetti, M. A., Netto, A. S., Rodrigues, P. H. M., Pacheco, J. C. G., Garrine, C., and Yoshikawa, C. Y. C., Effects of organic and inorganic copper and sulphur supplementation on blood biochemical parameters in sheep, Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira, 2015, 35, 875-881.

Combining -omics to unravel the impact of copper nutrition on Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) stem metabolism

Copper can be found in the environment at concentrations ranging from a shortage up to the threshold of toxicity for plants, with optimal growth conditions situated in between. The plant stem plays a central role in transferring and distributing minerals, water and other solutes throughout the plant.

In this study, alfalfa is exposed to different levels of copper availability, from deficiency to slight excess, and the impact on the metabolism of the stem is assessed by a non-targeted proteomics study and by the expression analysis of key genes controlling plant stem development.

Under copper deficiency, the plant stem accumulates specific copper chaperones, the expression of genes involved in stem development is decreased and the concentrations of zinc and molybdenum are increased in comparison with the optimum copper level. At the optimal copper level, the expression of cell wall-related genes increases and proteins playing a role in cell wall deposition and in methionine metabolism accumulate, whereas copper excess imposes a reduction in the concentration of iron in the stem and a reduced abundance of ferritins. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) analysis suggests a role for the apoplasm as a copper storage site in the case of copper toxicity.

Determination of copper and other minerals in goats and sheep of the San Francisco river valley in Pernambuco, Brazil

For the determination of copper concentration and its antagonists, 160 serum and liver samples were used, from goat and sheep sent to the municipal slaughterhouse of Petrolina. The samples were correlated with the same animal, in order to prevent errors in data collection. Serum ceruloplasmin activity was determined by colorimetric method. For determination of minerals, the samples were diluted six to twenty times with Milli-Q water. For determining concentrations of mineral elements in the liver, the samples were digested until achieving a solution that maintained the initial sample and minerals totally liquid, without the presence of solid particles which could clog the capillary suction of the spectrometer and prevent reading of samples. The concentrations of copper, molybdenum, iron and zinc were determined by optical emission spectrometry (ICP). Thus, the experiment was conducted to determine the occurrence and distribution of copper deficiency in the San Francisco valley of Pernambuco. No copper deficiency was revealed in this region of the state of Pernambuco, when the mean levels of hepatic copper were evaluated. Zinc levels were within a normal range, whereas iron levels were higher in sheep, and lower levels of molybdenum in goats.

It was also found that the activity of ceruloplasmin was an indicator of serum copper.

Silva, S. S., Antonelli, A. C., Soares, G. W. N., Gomes, I. M. M., and Rocha, J. F.,Determination of copper and other minerals in goats and sheep of the San Francisco river valley in Pernambuco, Brazil, Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira, 2015, 35, 767-774.

Serum and hepatic levels of copper, zinc, iron and molybdenum in sheep and goats raised in the semiarid of Bahia state

The aim of this research was to know the copper, zinc, iron and molybdenum content in serum and liver of small ruminants raised in the cities of Casa Nova and Juazeiro, state of Bahia, and verify the occurrence of primary or secondary copper deficiency.

A total of 160 samples of sheep and goats of both sexes collected in the dry and rainy season were evaluated.

The values for serum copper in goats was 13.8+/-0.3 mu mol/L and in sheep it was 12.2+/-0.4 mu mol/L, while the mean liver concentration was 220 ppm for goats and 238 ppm for sheep.

The serum zinc value for goats was 28.3+/-1.0 mu mol/L and for sheep it was 28.7+/-0.8 mu mol/L, while the mean liver concentration was 99 ppm for goats and 92 ppm for sheep.

Serum iron value for goats was 61+/-3 mu mol/L and for sheep it was 64+/-2 mu mol/L, while liver levels were 172 ppm for goats and 221 ppm for sheep.

Copper mean values do not indicate the occurrence of copper deficiency in small ruminants raised in the cities studied. Zinc levels were within the normal values and do not require extra supplementation of this mineral. The serum iron levels were elevated, however it did not interfere in copper metabolism in order to result in a cupric deficiency.

Silva, W. R., Gomes, I. M. M., Rocha, J. F., Mori, C. S., Michima, L. E. S., Ortolani, E. L., and Antonelli, A. C.,Serum and hepatic levels of copper, zinc, iron and molybdenum in sheep and goats raised in the semiarid of Bahia state, Arquivo Brasileiro De Medicina Veterinaria E Zootecnia, 2016, 68, 155-163.

The content of copper and molybdenum in the liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscles of elk (Alces alces) from north-eastern Poland

The aim of the study was to evaluate the content of Cu and Mo in the liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscles of elks from north-eastern Poland.

The investigation material comprised samples obtained in 2010 from 35 animals. Animals were grouped according to age (elks up to 2 years and over than 3 years). The metal concentrations were determined using coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method.

The mean Cu concentrations in the liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscles were 23.08, 5.03, and 2.36 mgkg-1 wet weight, respectively.

The mean Mo content in the examined samples was as follows: 0.92, 0.42, and 0.05 mgkg-1 wet weight (w.w.) in the liver, kidneys, and muscles.

In the analysis of correlation between the Cu and Mo levels in particular organs, the presence of significant dependence (p

The mean Cu content in the liver of animals studied is lower compared with data reported from Sweden, Russia, and North America. Concentrations of Cu and Mo in the kidneys and skeletal muscles of Polish elks are similar to data noted in healthy animals from Scandinavian region. The results suggest that elks from north-eastern Poland may be threatened by primary Cu deficiency.

Skibniewski, M., Skibniewska, E. M., Kosla, T., and Olbrych, K., The Content of Copper and Molybdenum in the Liver, Kidneys, and Skeletal Muscles of Elk (Alces alces) from North-Eastern Poland, Biological trace element research, 2016, 169, 204-10.

Superoxide dismutase activity, hydrogen peroxide steady-state concentration, and bactericidal and phagocytic activities against Moraxella bovis, in neutrophils isolated from copper-deficient bovines 

Copper (Cu) deficiency increases occurrence of certain infectious diseases in animals, including infectious keratoconjunctivitis in bovines, a bacterial ocular inflammation caused by Moraxella bovis. Neutrophil leukocytes constitute the first phagocytic cells to arrive at infection sites for bacterial neutralization. The objective of this work was to evaluate whether the functionality of neutrophils against M. bovis is impaired in experimentally induced Cu deficiency in bovines using high molybdenum and sulfur levels in the diet. The Cu tissue values and the periocular achromotrichia observed in +Mo animals showed that the clinic phase of Cu deficiency was reached in this group. Instead, +Cu animals have not evidenced clinical signs or biochemical parameters of hypocuprosis. On the basis of our observations, we concluded that Cu deficiency has no effect on phagocytic and bactericidal activities of neutrophils against M. bovis. However, superoxide dismutase activity and peroxide hydrogen generation were significantly different between groups. Therefore, additional research to explain these results is merited to fully characterize the consequences of Cu status on the risk for infections under field conditions.

Cintia, P. G., Leonardo, M., Israel, O. R., Andrea, S., Beatriz, V. L., and Elena, D. M., Superoxide Dismutase Activity, Hydrogen Peroxide Steady-State Concentration, and Bactericidal and Phagocytic Activities Against Moraxella bovis, in Neutrophils Isolated from Copper-Deficient Bovines, Biological trace element research, 2015.

Tetrathiomolybdate molybdenum copper interaction dog

Objective:
To evaluate pharmacokinetics of ammonium tetrathiomolybdate (TTM) after IV and oral administration to dogs and effects of TTM administration on trace mineral concentrations.

Animals:
8 adult Beagles and Beagle crossbreds (4 sexually intact males and 4 sexually intact females).

Prcedures:
Dogs received TTM (1 mg/kg) IV and orally in a randomized crossover study. Serum molybdenum and copper concentrations were measured via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in samples obtained 0 to 72 hours after administration. Pharmacokinetics was determined via noncompartmental analysis.

Results:
For IV administration: mean +/- SD terminal elimination rate constant 0.03 +/- 0.01 hours(-1), maximum concentration4.9 +/- 0.6 mu g/mL, area under the curve30.7 +/- 5.4 mu g/mL . h, and half-life 27.7 +/- 6.8 hours.

For oral administration: mean +/- SD terminal elimination rate constant0.03 +/- 0.01 hours(-1), time to maximum concentration3.0 +/- 3.5 hours, maximum concentration0.2 +/- 0.4 mu g/mL, area under the curve6.5 +/- 8.0 mu g/mL . h, and half-life 26.8 +/- 8.0 hours.

Oral bioavailability was 21 +/- 22%.

Serum copper concentrations increased significantly after IV and oral administration.

Emesis [the act of vomiting, the technical name for vomiting] occurred after IV (2 dogs) and oral administration (3 dogs).

Conclusions and clinical relevance:

Pharmacokinetics for TTM after a single IV and oral administration was determined for clinically normal dogs.

Absorption of TTM after oral administration was variable.

Increased serum copper concentrations suggested that TTM mobilized tissue copper.

Further studies will be needed to evaluate the potential therapeutic use of TTM in copper-associated chronic hepatitis of dogs.

Chan, C. M., Langlois, D. K., Buchweitz, J. P., Lehner, A. F., Olivier, N. B., Herdt, T. H., Bailie, M. B., and Schall, W. D., Pharmacologic evaluation of ammonium tetrathiomolybdate after intravenous and oral administration to healthy dogs, American Journal of Veterinary Research, 2015, 76, 445.

Sheep pasture Norway

To obtain a better knowledge basis for the correct supply of Cu to sheep in Norway, a systematic, countrywide investigation of element composition of pasture plants was conducted, with emphasis on natural pastures. Samples of pasture grass, herbs, willow shrub leaves and bilberry (N = 575) from 142 locations were analysed for Cu, Mo, S and Fe. A large geographical variation was observed for Mo concentration and Cu:Mo ratio, a somewhat smaller variation for Fe, while Cu and S concentrations showed limited geographical variation. The Mo variation led to a Cu:Mo ratio 20 in 62% of samples, confirming that the trace element composition of Norwegian sheep pastures may represent a risk of Cu deficiency as well as Cu overload, depending on location. A considerable botanical variation was also observed, in particular for Cu and Mo.

Sivertsen, T., Garmo, T. H., Lierhagen, S., Bernhoft, A., and Steinnes, E., Geographical and botanical variation in concentrations of copper, molybdenum, sulphur and iron in sheep pasture plants in Norway, Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica Section A-Animal Science, 2014, 64, 178-187.

Copper molybdenum interaction plants

During the last 40 years, crop breeding has strongly increased yields but has had adverse effects on the content of micronutrients, such as Fe, Mg, Zn and Cu, in edible products despite their sufficient supply in most soils. This suggests that micronutrient remobilization to edible tissues has been negatively selected. As a consequence, the aim of this work was to quantify the remobilization of Cu in leaves of Brassica napus L. during Cu deficiency and to identify the main metabolic processes that were affected so that improvements can be achieved in the future.

While Cu deficiency reduced oilseed rape growth by less than 19% compared to control plants, Cu content in old leaves decreased by 61.4%, thus demonstrating a remobilization process between leaves. Cu deficiency also triggered an increase in Cu transporter expression in roots (COPT2) and leaves (HMA1), and more surprisingly, the induction of the MOT1 gene encoding a molybdenum transporter associated with a strong increase in molybdenum (Mo) uptake.

Proteomic analysis of leaves revealed 33 proteins differentially regulated by Cu deficiency, among which more than half were located in chloroplasts. Eleven differentially expressed proteins are known to require Cu for their synthesis and/or activity. Enzymes that were located directly upstream or downstream of Cu-dependent enzymes were also differentially expressed.

The overall results are then discussed in relation to remobilization of Cu, the interaction between Mo and Cu that occurs through the synthesis pathway of Mo cofactor, and finally their putative regulation within the Calvin cycle and the chloroplastic electron transport chain.

Billard, V., Ourry, A., Maillard, A., Garnica, M., Coquet, L., Jouenne, T., Cruz, F., Garcia-Mina, J. M., Yvin, J. C., and Etienne, P., Copper-Deficiency in Brassica napus Induces Copper Remobilization, Molybdenum Accumulation and Modification of the Expression of Chloroplastic Proteins, Plos One, 2014, 9.

Copper imbalances in ruminants and humans: unexpected common ground

Ruminants are more vulnerable to copper deficiency than humans because rumen sulfide generation lowers copper availability from forage, increasing the risk of conditions such as swayback in lambs. Molybdenum-rich pastures promote thiomolybdate synthesis and formation of unabsorbable copper-thiomolybdate complexes, turning risk to clinical reality (hypocuprosis).

Selection pressures created ruminant species with tolerance of deficiency but vulnerability to copper toxicity in alien environments, such as specific pathogen-free units. By contrast, cases of copper imbalance in humans seemed confined to rare genetic aberrations of copper metabolism. Recent descriptions of human swayback and the exploratory use of thiomolybdate for the treatment of Wilson's disease, tumor growth, inflammatory diseases, and Alzheimer's disease have created unexpected common ground.

The incidence of pre-hemolytic copper poisoning in specific pathogen-free lambs was reduced by an infection with Mycobacterium avium that left them more responsive to treatment with thiomolybdate but vulnerable to long-term copper depletion.

Copper requirements in ruminants and humans may need an extra allowance for the "copper cost" of immunity to infection.

Residual cuproenzyme inhibition in thiomolybdate -treated lambs and anomalies in plasma copper composition that appeared to depend on liver copper status raise this question "can chelating capacity be harnessed without inducing copper-deficiency in ruminants or humans?"

A model of equilibria between exogenous (thiomolybdate ) and endogenous chelators (e.g., albumin, metallothionein) is used to predict risk of exposure and hypocuprosis; although risk of natural exposure in humans is remote, vulnerability to thiomolybdate-induced copper deficiency may be high. Biomarkers of thiomolybdate impact are needed, and copper chaperones for inhibited cuproenzymes are prime candidates.

Suttle, N. F., Copper Imbalances in Ruminants and Humans: Unexpected Common Ground, Advances in Nutrition, 2012, 3, 666-674.

[Hemolysis: breakdown or destruction of red blood cells so that the contained hemoglobin is freed into the surrounding medium.]

Cupromolybdite, Cu3O(MoO4)2, a new fumarolic mineral from the Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia

Cupromolybdite is a new fumarolic mineral from the New Tolbachik scoria cones of Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia. Cupromolybdite forms prismatic crystals up to 150 mu m in length or acicular crystals with a thickness and length of 1-5 mu m and 100 mu m, respectively. The acicular crystals of cupromolybdite are typically combined in radiating aggregates.

The mineral is associated with piypite, fedotovite, vergasovaite, hematite, magnetite, aphthitalite, langbeinite, palmierite, As-bearing orthoclase, lammerite, klyuchevskite, alumoklyuchevskite, euchlorine, lyonsite, pseudolyonsite, averievite, rutile and native gold.

Cupromolybdite is honey-yellow or brown, and its acicular crystals are bright yellow. The mineral has yellow or light brown streak and an adamantine lustre.

Cupromolybdite is brittle, and its fracture ranges from uneven to splintery.

The calculated density is 4.512 g/cm3.

The reflectance values (R-1 and R-2, %) in air for the four COM wavelengths are 14.95, 16.3 (470 nm), 13.4, 14.85 (546 nm), 12.73, 14.16 (589 nm), and 12.15, 13.5 (650 nm).

The chemical composition (the mean of 7 electron microprobe analyses) of cupromolybdite is: CuO 43.03, FeO 0.08, ZnO 0.53, MoO3 54.48, SO3 0.71, V2O5 0.28, SiO2 0.04, total 99.15 wt%, corresponding, on the basis of 9 0 atoms, to (Cu2.83Zn0.03Fe0.01)(Sigma 2.87)(Mo1.98S0.05V0.02)(Sigma 2.05)O9. The simplified formula of cupromolybdite is Cu3O(MoO4)2 = Cu3Mo2O9.

Cupromolybdite is orthorhombic, space group Pnma, a = 7.6638(1), h = 6.8670(1), c = 14.5554(2) angstrom, V = 766.01(2) angstrom(3) and Z = 4. The strongest powder-diffraction lines [d in A (I) (hkl)] are: 7.312 (67) (002); 3.518 (55) (113); 3.436 (100) (020); 3.301 (99) (210, 104); 3.065 (79) (121); 2.556 (62) (220); 2.506 (66) (301, 024). The crystal structure was solved from single-crystal data and refined to R = 0.0314. Cupromolybdite is a natural analogue of the synthetic compound Cu3Mo2O9 and the Sfree analogue of vergasovaite, Cu3O[(Mo,S)O4][SO4]. The crystal structure of cupromolybdite contains strings of corner-shared Cu(1)O6 octahedra elongated in the [010] direction. In cupromolybdite, the Cu(2)O5 square pyramids and the Cu(3)O6 distorted octahedra are linked to the Cu(1)O6 octahedra of the strings by edges and to the MoO4 and (Mo,S)O4 tetrahedra by vertices. A minor admixture of S is concentrated in one of two independent tetrahedral positions. Cupromolybdite is named for its chemical composition.

Zelenski, M. E., Zubkova, N. V., Pekov, I. V., Polekhovsky, Y. S., and Pushcharovsky, D. Y., Cupromolybdite, Cu3O(MoO4)(2), a new fumarolic mineral from the Tolbachik volcano, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, European Journal of Mineralogy, 2012, 24, 749-757.

Variations in copper concentration and ceruloplasmin activity of dairy cows in relation to lactation stages with regard to ceruloplasmin to copper ratios

Variations of copper (Cu) concentration and ceruloplasmin (Cp) activity in serum and plasma of dairy cows at different stages of lactation were assessed in 240 Holstein dairy cows. Ceruloplasmin to copper ratios were also investigated.

The cows were classified according to their lactation stages into four different groups as close-up stage (3-1 week(s) antepartum), fresh lactation stage (0-1 week postpartum), early lactation stage (3-5 weeks postpartum), and mid-lactation stage (15-18 weeks postpartum). Each group consisted of 60 multiparous cows. Serum and heparinised plasma samples were obtained from each cow.

Concentrations of serum copper (sCu) and plasma copper (pCu) and activities of plasma Cp (pCp) were higher in the group of fresh lactation stage than other groups (P < 0.05).

Serum Cp (sCp) exhibited no significant difference between fresh lactation and early lactation groups (P > 0.05). Low correlations were obtained between sCp and pCu, sCp and sCu, and sCu and pCu.

Plasma copper concentration and plasma ceruloplasmin activity were higher than serum copper concentration and serum ceruloplasmin activity, respectively (P < 0.001). The ratios of Cp activity to Cu concentration (Cp/Cu) were not significantly changed in the different lactation stages of dairy cows (P > 0.05). Use of sCp/pCu and sCp/sCu rather than pCp/pCu will reduce the calculated value of Cp/Cu. Furthermore, for evaluation of copper status, use of sCp/sCu or sCp/pCu identified more animals as 'low' and 'marginal' than using pCp/pCu (P < 0.001).

It can be concluded that ceruloplasmin and copper undergo a physiological increase just after calving; thus, their values should be interpreted with caution during assessment of copper status. Plasma measurements should be used for calculation of Cp/Cu, and further research is required to refine diagnosis criteria for use of such ratio in determining copper status in dairy cows.

Hussein, H. A. and Staufenbiel, R., Variations in Copper Concentration and Ceruloplasmin Activity of Dairy Cows in Relation to Lactation Stages with Regard to Ceruloplasmin to Copper Ratios, Biological Trace Element Research, 2012, 146, 47-52.

The influence of molybdenum on the copper metabolism of the rat at different copper levels of the diet

1. Male WAG/Cpb inbred rats fed on rations with approximately 1-5 rng copper/kg (deficient), 6.0 mg copper/kg (adequate) and 25.0 mg copper/kg (excess) were supplemented with varying amounts of molybdenum (0, 50, 150 and 500 mg/kg diet) (as ammonium heptamolybdate) and the effect on the copper concentration of blood, plasma, liver and kidney, the caeruloplasmin activity of plasma and the molybdenum concentration of liver and kidney were studied. Copper was supplied as copper(II) nitrate.

2. Molybdenum increased the copper concentration of blood, plasma, liver and kidney and the molybdenum concentration of liver and kidney.

3. In the plasma of molybdenum-supplemented rats the presence of a copper-containing fraction was demonstrated, the copper of which did not react with dithiocarbamate and was not related to caeruloplasmin. The copper in this fraction was not able to increase the caeruloplasmin activity in the plasma of copper-deficient molybdenum-supplemented rats. The copper concentration of the erythrocytes did not seem to have been increased by the molybdenum treatment.

4. When compared to copper-adequate rats the effect of molybdenum on the copper distribution was reduced both by copper deficiency and copper excess. This decreased effect of molybdenum was explained by reduced uptake or retention of molybdenum in the body as observed in the liver and kidney.

Nederbragt, H.,Br. J. Nutr., 1980, 43, 329. The influence of molybdenum on the copper metabolism of the rat at different Cu levels of the diet.

Using plasma copper levels alone to diagnose a molybdenum toxic condition is flawed. Thiomolybdates are absorbed into the ruminant body and have toxic effects (molybdenum toxicity) on critical copper metallo-enzymes. The effects are impaired fertility and production. Prevention of molybdenum toxicity is achieved by reducing the iron intake of the animal and by supplementation with copper that is sacrificial in the rumen and not primarily supplied for absorption. A correct diagnosis will allow appropriate supplementation to be undertaken.

Telfer, S.B., Kendall, N. R., Illingworth, D. V., and Mackenzie, A. M., Molybdenum toxicity in cattle: an underestimated problem, Cattle Practice, 2004, 12, 259-263.
Suttle, N. F., Relationships between the concentrations of trichloroacetic acid-soluble copper and caeruloplasmin in the serum of cattle from areas with different soil concentrations of molybdenum, Veterinary Record, 2008, 162, 237-240.

Physiological and genotoxic effects of molybdenum-induced copper deficiency in cattle

Molybdenosis is a disease caused by the depressing effect of molybdenum (Mo) on the physiological availability of Copper (Cu). The present study was carried out in order to analyze the ability of Mo to cause damage on the DNA integrity and changes in membrane fatty acids by oxidative damage.

Holstein male calves were fed a Mo-supplemented diet for 9 months. Variables evaluated were plasma Cu concentration, erythrocyte Cu content and SOD [superoxide dismutase] activity, comet assay and analysis of the fatty acid composition of erythrocyte membranes.

The statistical design was a completely randomized with one single factor and two replications.

Copper plasma concentration, erythrocyte copper concentration and Cu/Zn SOD activity were analyzed using the t test. Chi-square test was used to compare the number of cells with DNA damage, and one-way analysis of variance and Tukey test (p <= 0.05) for fatty acid composition and lipid peroxidation.

Results showed that Mo in the diet induced

  • depletion of hepatic Cu storage,
  • decrease of Cu plasma and erythrocyte levels,
  • fall in Cu/Zn-SOD activity,
  • changes in membrane fatty acids composition
  • DNA damage.

These results are in agreement with the three phases model of Cu deficiency and validate the occurrence of molybdenosis or secondary hypocuprosis. Further studies will be necessary to explore the mechanisms involved in the DNA damage and to distinguish primary molybdenum toxicosis from the molybdenum-induced copper deficiency

Picco, S., Ponzzinibio, M. V., Mattioli, G., Rosa, D., Minatel, L., Fazzio, L., and Seoane, A., PHYSIOLOGICAL AND GENOTOXIC EFFECTS OF MOLYBDENUM-INDUCED COPPER DEFICIENCY IN CATTLE, Agrociencia, 2012, 46, 107-117.

Molybdenum affects the concentrations of other trace elements in the blood and tissues but, except for copper, the interrelationships have not been studied in detail. The interest in the molybdenum-copper relationship arises in connection with the teart condition of sheep and cattle. In the sheep feeding 3 mg Mo/kg live weight as sodium molybdate decreased iron in the blood (by 15%) and increased zinc (by 24%) [Kholod, 1969]. An excess of either copper or molybdenum forms an undissociated Cu-Mo-S complex thereby creating a deficiency of the metal in marginal supply. In the United States dietary excess of copper is common and molybdenum intake may not be optimal. The consequence is a conditioned deficiency of molybdenum which may contribute to abnormalities of iron metabolism and utilisation. Certain forms of anaemia which do not respond to iron therapy, respond to molybdate [Seelig, 1972, 1973].

Kholod, V. M., Uch. Zap. Vitebsk. Vet. Inst., 1969, 21, 64.
Seelig, H. S., Amer. J. Clin. Nutr., 1972, 25, 1022; 1973, 26, 657.

Because of the copper-molybdenum interrelationship and the relationship to sulfate intake, any evaluation of the possible hazard from elevated molybdenum intake in the diet must be related to the concurrent intake of sulfate and copper. In non-ruminants excessive intakes of sulfate will be a key factor in causing copper antagonism [Arthur, 1965]. An evaluation of the quantitative aspects of the copper-molybdenum-sulfate interrelationships required for the assessment of molybdenum dietary risk has been considered [Clarke and Clarke, 1975].

Clarke, E. G. C. and Clarke M. L., Molybdenum in: Veterinary Toxicology, Wilkins & Wilkins, Baltimore, Maryland, 1975, 86.

Molybdenum (and copper) influence the internal transport and release of iron [Seelig, 1972, 1973]. Molybdenum in xanthine oxidase participates in reduction of cellular iron(III) to iron(II).

Seelig, H. S., Amer. J. Clin. Nutr., 1972, 25, 1022; 1973, 26, 657.

High dietary levels of molybdenum produce a conditioned copper deficiency by depleting copper storage in the liver. The antagonism between molybdenum and copper is most pronounced in ruminant animals and gives rise to molybdenosis. For example, liver copper decreased and milk copper concentrations increased in dairy cows on feed containing sodium molybdate (53-300 ppm).

Huber, J. T., Price, N. O. and Engel, R. W., J. Animal Sci., 1971, 32, 364.

Sulfate limits molybdenum retention both by reducing its gastrointestinal absorption and by increasing its urinary and faecal excretion. The transport of molybdenum across tissue membrane is prevented by excess of sulfate ions [Venugopal and Luckey, 1978]. Sulfate may also displace molybdate in the body. So copper, sulfate, and copper sulfate have been used to treat conditions due to excessive molybdenum [Arrington and Davis, 1953].

Venugopal, B. and Luckey, T. D., Metal Toxicity in Mammals, 1978, Vol. 2, Chemical Toxicity of Metals and Metalloids, Plenum Press, New York.
Arrington, L. R. and Davis, G. K., J. Nutr., 1953, 99, 295.

Molybdenum toxicity occurs in cattle and, to a less extent, in sheep on pastures with relatively high molybdenum contents (20-100 ppm compared with 3-5 ppm on "normal" pastures) [Underwood, 1962; Kolomiitseva et al., 1968; Schroeder et al., 1970; Lukashev, 1973; Huisingh et al., 1973; Dick, 1969; Grace, 1969; Clawson et al., 1972; Mareilese et al., 1970].100 ppm Mo in feed is definitely toxic to cattle. Levels of 25 to 50 ppm in feeds have shown mixed results and sometimes no effects. Effects atributed to feeds containing less than 25 ppm Mo have often been associated with very low Cu levels and poorly avilable Cu [Ward, 1994].

Underwood, E. J., in Trace Elements in Human and Animal Nutrition, Academic Press, London, 2nd Ed., 1962, pp. 100-122.
Schroeder, H. A., Balassa, J. J.and Tipton, I. H., J. Chronic Diseases, 1970, 23, 481.
Ward, G.M., Molybdenum requirements, toxicity and nutritional limits for man and animals, Studies in Inorganic Chemistry, 1994, 19, 452 - 476.
Lukashev, A. A., Grig. Tr. Prof. Zabol., 1973, 12, 13.
Kolomiitseva, M. G., Polonskaya, M. N.and Osipov, G. K., Mikroelem. Sel. Khoz. Med., 1968, 4, 183.
Huisingh, J., Gomez, G. G. and Matrone, G., Fed. Proc., Fed. Amer. Soc. Exp. Biol., 1973, 32, 1 921.
Dick, A. T., Australian Vet. J., 1952, 28, 30; 1953, 29, 18, 233; 1954, 30, 196.
Dick, A. T., in Inorganic Nitrogen Metabolism, ed. McElroy, W. D. and Glass, B., John Hopkins Press, Baltimore, 1956, p. 445.
Dick, A. T., Outlook Agr., 1969, 6, 14.
Grace, N. D., Proc. N. Z. Grassl. Ass., 1969, 31, 65.
Clawson, W. J., Lesperance, A. L., Bohman, V. R. and Layhee, D. C., J. Anim. Sci., 1972, 34, 516.
Mareilese, N. A., Ammerman, C. B., Valsecchi, R. M., Dunavant, B. G. and Davis, G. K., J. Nutr. , 1969, 99, 177.

The excess of molybdenum causes a condition known as "teart" which is characterised by scouring (diarrhoea), rapid loss of weight and condition, the development of harsh, discoloured coats, and ultimately death. That a similar condition occurred in cattle on copper-deficient pastures led to the realisation that molybdenum is a copper antagonist, i.e. interferes with the uptake or utilisation of copper. Hence, molybdenum poisoning also known as, "Molybdenosis", "Teart Syndrome" or "Peatscours", is a secondary copper deficiency manifested by diarrhoea, anorexia, depigmentation of the hair or wool, neurological disturbances and premature death [Wennig and Kirsch, 1988; Friberg and Lener, 1986]. The condition can be treated by giving affected animals extra copper in their feed or by injecting copper glycinate.

Webb, J. S., Geol. Soc. Amer., Mem., 1971, 123, 31.
Wennig, R., and Kirsch, N., in: Handbook on Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds, Seiler, H. G., Sigel, H., and Sigel, E. (eds.),1988, 437. Marcel Dekker, New York.

Because of its importance in agriculture and relevance to understanding the metabolism of molybdenum and copper, the mechanism of the molybdenum-copper antagonism has been extensively studied in cattle, sheep, and experimental animals. In the causation of teart molybdenum and sulfate are both required: neither is effective alone. The effect of molybdenum plus sulfate is to increase accumulation of copper in the kidney and increase excretion of copper by way of urine [Dick, 1969; Mareilese et al., 1970]. Various mechanisms have been proposed. The antagonism of molybdenum and copper is considered to be due to the formation of copper sulfide [Kazakov, 1970]. An important finding is that molybdenum plus sulfate reduce formation of ceruloplasmin (a copper binding protein in the blood) and increase the inorganic plasma copper or copper loosely bound to albumin. Molybdenum causes an impairment of copper uptake by liver cells, and thus disturbs the synthesis of copper-containing proteins, including ceruloplasmin [Mareilese et al., 1969]. Molybdenum depresses liver sulfide oxidase activity [Halverson et al., 1960]. The resulting sulfide accumulation leads to the formation of highly insoluble cupric sulfide and the subsequent appearance of symptoms of copper deficiency. However, copper prevents the accumulation of molybdenum in the liver by antagonising the absorption of molybdenum. The point of general interest which emerges from these investigations is the close relationship between the metabolism of molybdenum, copper, and sulfate [Miller and Engel, 1960]. The effect of molybdenum on copper metabolism is greatest in species with a relatively high copper requirement. So cattle and sheep are more susceptible than rabbits, horses, and human beings to molybdenosis.

Dick, A. T., Outlook Agr., 1969, 6, 14.
Mareilese, N. A., Ammerman, C. B., Valsecchi, R. M.and Dunavant, B. G., J. Nutr., 1970, 100, 1399.
Kazakov A. M., Gig. Sanit., 1970, 35, 19.
Mareilese, N. A., Ammerman, C. B., Valsecchi, R. M., Dunavant, B. G. and Davis, G. K., J. Nutr., 1969, 99, 177.
Halverson, A. W., Phifer, J. H. and Monty, K. J., J. Nutr., 1960, 71, 95.
Miller, R. F., Price, N. O. and Engel, R. W., J. Nutr., 1956, 60, 539.

Copper deficiency, or molybdenosis in cattle, sheep and horses, occurred after heavy pollution of a pasture with fly ash. Molybdenum intoxication, seldom seen in non-ruminants, was blamed on the high bioavailability of molybdenum in fly ash. The fly ash was used in road construction. It blew over and contaminated pasture and water. Cows, sheep and horses exhibited Mo intoxication leading to death. The fly ash pH was ca 10 giving high bioavailability of Mo. Copper was low in exposed animals (ca 4 mg/kg wet cf control ca 18) but Mo was normal (ca 1.4) possibly because of the ‘short’ biological half life of Mo (24 h).

Ladefoged, O., Sturup, S., Copper Deficiency In Cattle, Sheep And Horses Caused By Excess Molybdenum From Fly-Ash - A Case-Report, Veterinary And Human Toxicology, 1995, 37, 63-65.

The effects of increased dietary concentrations of molybdenum and sulfur on the accumulation and tissue concentrations of cadmium in sheep were determined and compared with effects on copper. A basal diet containing (per kg dry weight) 0.016 mg Cd, 0.45 mg Mo, 3.4 mg Cu, and 1.9 g S was fed to four dietary treatment groups: control (basal diet plus 4 mg Cd/kg), +Mo (control diet plus 15 mg Mo/kg), +S (control diet plus 4 g S/kg), +Mo+S (control diet+15 mg Mo+4 gS/kg).The treatment period lasted 80 days, Sulfur alone reduced the accumulation of Cd in liver, kidney, and muscle by 60% Molybdenum alone reduced Cd accumulation by 40% in liver and muscle and 30% in kidney. When provided together (+Mo+S), the effect was equivalent to feeding with Mo alone, showing that Mo blocked the effect of S. For Cu in blood and tissues, the effects of Mo and S treatment were consistent with the thiomolybdate hypothesis, and were quite different from those seen for Cd. The results show that increased dietary levels of Mo and S reduce the accumulation of Cd in tissues, and the mechanisms of action differ from those involving Cu.

Smith, G.M., White, C.L., Molybdenum-sulfur-cadmium interaction in sheep, Australian Journal Of Agricultural Research, 1997, 48, 147-154.

Molybdenosis has been reported in Swedish moose.

Frank, A., 'Mysterious' moose disease in Sweden. Similarities to copper deficiency and/or molybdenosis in cattle and sheep, Biochemical background of clinical signs and organ lesions, Science Of The Total Environment, 1998, 20, 17-26.

Molybdenosis risk to cattle consuming corn stover (winter food for cattle) produced on biosolids-amended land is small. Stover Mo concentrations were always low and stover Cu to Mo ratios exceeded 2:1, which avoids molybdenosis problems even at very high biosolids loads and soil Mo loads estimated to be near 18 kg Mo/ha. Data from long-term (continuous corn) plots in Fulton County, IL confirm expected low Mo accumulation by corn stover. Data from plots in Minnesota also suggested essentially no correlations between stover Mo and soil Mo loads for continuous corn, However, greater Mo accumulation in corn grown following soybean [Glycine mar (L.) Merr.] suggests the possibility of enhanced Mo bioavailability to corn in corn-soybean rotations.

O'Connor, G. A., Granato, T. C., and Dowdy, R. H., Bioavailability of biosolids molybdenum to corn, Journal of Environmental Quality, 2001, 30, 140-146.

Thiomolybdates formed in the rumen are known to be involved in copper deficiency in ruminants. However, which particular thiomolybdates are formed has been an issue of contention. The relative proportions of the different thiomolybdates, formed under conditions simulating those within the rumen fluid of ruminants prone to copper deficiency, were measured using UV/visible spectroscopy. Pure synthesized thiomolybdates have also been used to study spectrophotometrically the interactions between the thiomolybdates and copper(II) in the presence and absence of some inorganic ligands, low molecular mass complexing agents and bovine serum albumin in aqueous solutions.

Quagraine, E.K. and Reid, R. S., UV/visible spectrophotometric studies of the interactions of thiomolybdates, copper(II) and other ligands, Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry, 2001, 85, 53-60

In human beings the absorption, tissue distribution, and excretion patterns of molybdenum are similar to those in other species described above. High dietary levels of molybdenum produces a conditioned copper deficiency in humans. Increased copper excretion and elevated levels of plasma copper were found in volunteers ingesting 1.54 mg of molybdenum daily [Deosthale and Gopalan, 1974]. Tungsten is antagonistic to molybdenum. It interferes with absorption and increases urinary excretion of molybdenum. The activities of molybdenum-dependent enzymes are inhibited in neonates when pregnant animals are fed tungsten. Tungsten is believed to replace molybdate in the molybdate-dependent enzymes [De Renzo, 1962]. As a result, sulfite oxidase and xanthine oxidase activities are reduced.

Deosthale, Y. G. and Gopalan, C., Br. J. Nutr., 1974, 31, 351.
De Renzo, E. C., Molybdenum in Mineral metabolism: An Advanced Treatise, (eds) Comar, C. L. and Bronner, F., 1962, U Part B, 483. Academic Press, New York.

In parenteral micronutrition a Mo uptake of >0.5 mg/day can cause significant urinary copper losses.

Leung, F.Y., Trace-Elements In Parenteral Micronutrition, Clinical Biochemistry, 1995, 28, 561-566.

Molybdenosis: copper deficiency caused by high sulfur in forage

An ailment of Przewalski's gazelles in the Hudong area of the Qinghai Lake area in China was caused by secondary copper deficiency, mainly due to high sulfur content in forage. The ailment was characterized by pica, emaciation, dyskinesia, loss of appetite, and anemia. Concentrations of copper in soil and forage from affected and unaffected areas were similar and within the normal range, but concentrations of sulfur in soil and forage were higher (P < 0.01) in affected than in unaffected areas. Concentrations of copper in blood, hair, and liver from the affected Przewalski's gazelles were lower (P < 0.01) than those in healthy animals. Affected Przewalski's gazelles showed a hypochromic microcytic anemia and a low level of ceruloplasmin. Oral administration of copper sulphate (CuSO­4) prevented and cured the disease.

Zhou, L. Y., Long, R. J., Pu, X. Y., Qi, J., and Zhang, W. W., Studies of a naturally occurring sulfur-induced copper deficiency in Przewalski's gazelles, Canadian Veterinary Journal-Revue Veterinaire Canadienne, 2009, 50, 1269-1272.

Copper deficiency induced by molybdenum and iron metabolism in beef cattle

The impact of a severe, long-term Cu deficiency on Fe metabolism in beef cattle was studied over 493 days. Twenty-one Angus calves were born to cows receiving one of the following treatments

(1) adequate Cu (+Cu),

(2) Cu deficiency (-Cu) induced by the addition of 2 mg of Mo/kg of DM

(3) Cu deficient plus high Mn (-Cu+Mn).

After weaning, calves remained on the same treatment as their dam through growing (basal diet analyzed 7 mg of Cu/kg of DM) and finishing (analyzed 4 mg of Cu/kg of DM) phases.

Plasma Fe concentrations were positively correlated (P < 0.01; r = 0.49) with plasma Cu concentrations.

Liver Fe concentrations were greater (P = 0.05) in -Cu vs +Cu calves and further increased (P = 0.07) in -Cu+Mn vs -Cu calves.

There was a negative relationship (P < 0.01; r = -0.31) between liver Cu and Fe concentrations. This relationship may be explained by less (P < 0.01) plasma ceruloplasmin activity in -Cu than +Cu calves.

Relative expression of hepatic hepcidin, as determined by real-time reverse transcription-PCR, was significantly downregulated (> 1.5 fold) in -Cu compared with +Cu calves (P = 0.03), and expression of hepatic ferroportin tended (P = 0.09) to be downregulated in -Cu vs +Cu.

In the duodenum, ferritin tended to be upregulated in -Cu vs +Cu calves (P < 0.06).

No significant change (P > 0.2) due to Cu-deficiency was detected at the transcriptional level for either isoform of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1 mRNA with or without an iron responsive element; dmt1IRE and dmt1-nonIRE in liver or intestine.

Duodenal expression of hephaestin and ferroportin protein was not affected by dietary treatment (P > 0.20).

Duodenal expression of DMT1 protein was less (P = 0.04) in -Cu+Mn steers vs -Cu steers.

In summary, Cu deficiency alone did affect hepatic gene expression of hepcidin and ferroportin, but did not affect duodenal expression of proteins important in Fe metabolism. However, the addition of 500 mg of Mn/kg of DM to a diet low in Cu reduced duodenal expression of the Fe import protein DMT1.

Hansen, S. L., Trakooljul, N., Liu, H. C. S., Hicks, J. A., Ashwell, M. S., and Spears, J. W., Proteins involved in iron metabolism in beef cattle are affected by copper deficiency in combination with high dietary manganese, but not by copper deficiency alone, Journal of Animal Science, 2010, 88, 275-283.

Molybdenum + sulfur effective in reducing retention and liver accumulation of dietary copper in sheep

Twelve male 8-month-old lambs were used in a 6-month feeding experiment to determine how dietary molybdenum, molybdenum + sulfur and zinc supplements affected the body retention and tissue accumulation of dietary copper, zinc and iron.

In comparison with the control, each dietary supplement decreased the copper concentration in the liver, but only the molybdenum + sulfur supplement decreased it to a safe range of below 350 mu g/g dry matter.

This was accompanied by the body retention of dietary copper for the control and dietary treatments:

control 24.6%,
Molybdenum 6.7%,
Molybdenum + Sulfur 2.5% and
Zinc 6.5%.

The blood plasma concentration of copper was decreased by the zinc supplement, but was not affected by other supplements.

Only molybdenum + sulfur appeared to be effective in reducing the retention and liver accumulation of the dietary copper to prevent chronic copper toxicity in sheep fed PKC-based diets.

Al Kirshi, R. A., Alimon, A. R., and Ivan, M., Effects of dietary molybdenum, sulfur and zinc on the excretion and tissue accumulation of trace elements in sheep fed palm kernel cake-based diets, Animal, 2011, 5, 1539-1545.

Copper and molybdenum had no effect on reproductive performance in beef cows

Serum concentrations of copper and molybdenum were measured at the end of the summer grazing season in an observational field study of 783 breeding females from 66 cow-calf herds located in western Canada.
The mean copper concentration was 0.82 ppm (sulfur, 0.30 ppm) and the mean molybdenum concentration was 0.056 ppm (sulfur, 0.055 ppm).
Serum copper concentration differed across ecoregions. Serum molybdenum concentrations varied by ecoregion, soil type, soil color, and total precipitation during the growing season.
Copper and molybdenum serum concentrations at the end of the grazing season were not associated with reproductive outcomes.

Van de Weyer, Leanne M. and Waldner, Cheryl L., Geographic determinants of copper and molybdenum concentrations in serum at the end of the grazing season and associations with reproductive performance in beef cows from western Canada, Canadian Journal of Animal Science, 2011, 91, 423-431.

Urinary copper and zinc excretion in cattle require both sulfur and molybdenum

The effects of low and high levels of dietary copper, molybdenum (1.10 mg/kg DM) and sulfur on urinary copper and zinc excretion in cattle (four Simmental and four Angus heifers) were studied.
Urinary copper excretion was greatest with the high copper + high molybdenum + high sulfur diet.
Urinary zinc excretion increased with high sulfur but not with high sulfur in combination with high molybdenum and/or high copper.

Urinary copper excretion in sheep increased only when sulfur (1.1 g/day) was added to the basal diet (5.5 mg copper, 0.7 mg molybdenum) and not with increasing levels of molybdenum alone (5 to 25 mg/day).

The findings that dietary molybdenum and sulfur significantly increase copper excretion through the biliary and urinary routes are in agreement with the reported beneficial effects of molybdenum and sulfur in the treatment of copper-toxicity in sheep.

Observations for the combined effects of molybdenum and sulfur, but not either on its own, are supported by other studies. For example, biliary copper excretion in sheep was much greater with intravenous thiomolybdate than with intravenous molybdenum.

It is the thiomolybdate formation that occurs when cattle are fed on high molybdenum and sulfur diets and the copper chelation by thiomolybdate that is responsible for the increased concentration and excretion of urinary copper (and increased kidney copper concentration), with some of the excess plasma copper filtered by the glomerulus reabsorbed by the kidney tubules.

In cattle fed a high copper + high molybdenum + high sulfur diet, it was the combined effect of high molybdenum and high sulfur that increased copper excretion through both routes, whereby significantly more copper was excreted through bile (0.81 mg/6 h) than through urine (0.29 mg).

Zinc excretion in bile (1.50 mg/6 h) and in urine (0.26 mg) was less influenced by the combination of high copper + high molybdenum + high sulfur in the diet. High sulfur alone contributed to significantly higher urinary zinc excretion than any other combination of dietary copper, molybdenum or sulfur.

[References in full text.]

Gooneratne, S. R., Laarveld, B., Pathirana, K. K., and Christensen, D. A., Effects of dietary Copper, Molybdenum and SULFUR on urinary Copper and Zinc excretion in Simmental and Angus cattle, Research in veterinary science, 2011, 91, e116-e120.

Copper deficiency in baboons due to zinc not molybdenum

In immature wild savannah baboons (Papio cynocephalus) symptoms of copper deficiency and a disorder referred to as white monkey syndrome (WMS) in laboratory primates were observed. Visible symptoms exhibited by WMS infants included whitening of the animal's fur and/or impaired mobility characterized by an apparent "stiffening'' of the hindlimbs.

Three hypotheses were tested: that (1) copper deficiency may have been induced by zinc toxicity, (2) it may have been induced by molybdenum toxicity, and (3) cumulative rainfall during the perinatal period and particularly during gestation is an ecological factor distinguishing infants afflicted with WMS from non-WMS infants.

WMS males had a significantly lower survivorship probability than non-WMS males.

Zinc/copper ratios assessed from hair samples of adult female baboons were higher in females who had produced at least one WMS offspring relative to females who had not had a WMS offspring: low copper levels induced by elevated zinc intake in some individuals.

No significant differences of molybdenum/copper ratios were observed.

Markham, A. Catherine, Gesquiere, Laurence R., Bellenger, Jean Philippe, Alberts, Susan C., and Altmann, Jeanne, White Monkey Syndrome and Presumptive Copper Deficiency in Wild Savannah Baboons, American Journal of Primatology, 2011, 73, 1160-1168.

Copper chelation by tetrathiomolybdate inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses

Redox-active transition metal ions, such as iron and copper, may play an important role in vascular inflammation, which is an etiologic factor in atherosclerotic vascular diseases.
Tetrathiomolybdate (TTM), a highly specific copper chelator, can act as an anti-inflammatory agent, preventing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses in vivo.
Female C57BL/6N mice were daily gavaged with TTM (30 mg/kg body wt) or vehicle control. After 3 wk, animals were injected intraperitoneally with 50 µg LPS or saline buffer and killed 3 h later.
Treatment with TTM reduced serum ceruloplasmin activity by 43%, a surrogate marker of bioavailable copper, in the absence of detectable hepatotoxicity.
The concentrations of both copper and molybdenum increased in various tissues, whereas the copper-to-molybdenum ratio decreased, consistent with reduced copper bioavailability.
TTM treatment did not have a significant effect on superoxide dismutase activity in heart and liver.
TTM significantly inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory gene transcription in aorta and heart, and significantly inhibited LPS-induced increases of serum levels.
Similar inhibitory effects of TTM were observed on activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B) and activator protein-1 (AP-1) in heart and lungs.
Copper chelation with TTM inhibits LPS-induced inflammatory responses in aorta and other tissues of mice, most likely by inhibiting activation of the redox-sensitive transcription factors, NF-kappa B and AP-1.
Therefore, copper appears to play an important role in vascular inflammation, and TTM may have value as an anti-inflammatory or anti-atherogenic agent.

Wei, Hao, Frei, Balz, Beckman, Joseph SULFUR., and Zhang, Wei Jian, Copper chelation by tetrathiomolybdate inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory responses in vivo, American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology, 2011, 301, H712-H720.

Copper deficiency in sheep due to high forage molybdenum and sulfur

The Guizhou semi-fine sheep in the Weining County, Guizhou province, south west China karst mountain area were affected by an ailment characterized by pica [an eating disorder typically defined as the persistent ingestion of nonnutritive substances], emaciation, dyskinesia [abnormal movement - rapid, randomly irregular jerky movements], depressed appetites, unsteady gait and anemia.

Concentrations of copper in soil and forage from affected and unaffected areas were within the normal ranges, but concentrations of sulfur and molybdenum in soil and forage were significantly higher (P<0.01) in affected areas than in unaffected areas.

Concentrations of copper in blood, wool and liver from the affected Guizhou semi-fine sheep were lower (P<0.01) than those in healthy animals. Affected Guizhou semi-fine sheep showed a hypochromic microcytic anemia and a low level of ceruloplasmin. Oral administration of copper(II) sulfate prevented and cured the disease. The disorder of Guizhou semi-fine sheep is caused by secondary copper deficiency, mainly due to high sulfur and molybdenum content in forage.

[Hypochromic microcytic anemia a blood disorder characterized by small red blood cells (erythrocytes) which have insufficient haemoglobin and hence have a reduced ability to carry oxygen through the body. The red blood cells are small due to a failure of haemoglobin synthesis or insufficient quantities of haemoglobin available. The blood disorder is usually caused by conditions such as iron deficiency.]

[Ceruloplasminis a copper-dependent ferroxidase enzyme synthesized in the liver. It is the major copper-carrying protein in the blood carrying about 70% of the total copper in human plasma. Albumin carries about 15% copper; the rest is accounted for by macroglobulins. Albumin binds copper less tightly than ceruloplasmin. Ceruloplasmin has a role in iron metabolism oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ thereby assisting in iron transport in the plasma in association with transferrin which can carry iron only in the iron(III) state.]

Yuan-Rong; Li li-Juan; Wang Qi-Wen; Du Guo-Zhen, Copper deficiency in Guizhou semi-fine wool sheep on pasture in south west China karst mountain area, African Journal of Biotechnology, 2011, 10, 74, 17043-17048.

Molybdenum copper interaction in cashmere goats
Effect of different levels of copper and molybdenum supplements on serum lipid profiles and antioxidant status in cashmere goats

An experiment was conducted to investigate on the effects of different levels of copper (Cu: 0, 19, and 38mg/kg) and molybdenum (Mo: 0 and 5mg/kg) supplements and the interaction of these two factors on serum lipid profiles and antioxidant status in cashmere goats during the cashmere fiber growing period.

Thirty-six Liaoning cashmere goats (approximately 1.5years of age; 27.5 31.38kg of body weight) were assigned to one of six treatments in a completely randomized design involving a 2*3 factorial arrangement. Goats were housed in individual pens and fed with Chinese wild rye- and alfalfa hay-based diet containing 4.72mg Cu/kg, 0.16mg Mo/kg, and 0.21% S for 84days. Blood samples were collected on day 84.

The triglyceride concentration did not differ among treatments (P>0.05).

Supplemental Cu, regardless of Mo level, decreased (P<0.05) the concentrations of serum total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased (P<0.05) the concentration of serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol, but there were no differences (P>0.05) in these values between Cu-supplemented groups.

Supplemental Cu increased (P<0.05) the activities of serum ceruloplasmin (Cp), Cu-zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and decreased (P<0.05) the malondialdehyde content.

The serum GSH-Px activity was also increased (P<0.05) by Mo supplementation.

There was a tendency of the interaction effects of Cu and Mo on the activities of Cp (P=0.094), SOD (P=0.057), and GSH-Px (P=0.062), and goats fed with 19mg Cu/kg in the absence of Mo tended to show the highest serum SOD activity, while goats fed with 38mg Cu/kg with 5mg Mo/kg tended to show the highest values of serum Cp and GSH-Px.

Addition of Cu, Mo, or their interaction had no influence (P>0.05) on the activities of serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase, and the concentrations of serum glucose and total protein.

In conclusion, addition of 19mg Cu/kg in the absence of Mo (the total dietary Cu level of 23.72mg/kg) was recommended for altering the fat metabolism and obtaining the optimal antioxidant activity of cashmere goats, while 38mg Cu/kg should be supplemented when 5mg Mo/kg was added in the basal diet (the total dietary level of 42.72mg Cu/kg, 5.16mg Mo/kg, and 0.21% S) during the cashmere growing period.

Zhang, Wei, Zhang, Yu, Zhang, Shi W., Song, Xian Z., Jia, Zhi H., and Wang, Run L., Effect of different levels of copper and molybdenum supplements on serum lipid profiles and antioxidant status in cashmere goats, Biological trace element research, 2012, 148, 309-315.

The fictile coordination chemistry of cuprous-thiolate sites in copper chaperones

Copper plays vital roles in the active sites of cytochrome oxidase and in several other enzymes essential for human health.

Copper is also highly toxic when dysregulated; because of this an elaborate array of accessory proteins has evolved which act as intracellular carriers or chaperones for the copper ions. In most cases chaperones transport cuprous copper.

This review discusses some of the chemistry of these copper sites, with a view to some of the structural factors in copper coordination which are important in the biological function of these chaperones.

The coordination chemistry and accessible geometries of the cuprous oxidation state are remarkably plastic and we discuss how this may relate to biological function.

This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Biogenesis/Assembly of Respiratory Enzyme Complexes. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved

Pushie, M. Jake, Zhang, Limei, Pickering, Ingrid J., and George, Graham N., The fictile coordination chemistry of cuprous-thiolate sites in copper chaperones, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta-Bioenergetics, 2012, 1817, 938-947.

[Fictile: Capable of being moulded, suitable for making pottery. Now rare.

< Latin fictil-em, < fingĕre to fashion

Oxford English Dictionary

Dysregulation: Impairment of a physiological regulatory mechanism (as that governing metabolism, immune response, or organ function)

http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/]

Molybdenum toxicity in the rabbit

Dutch rabbits were fed molybdenum added as sodium molybdate (Na2Mo04-2H20) to a commercial ration. When 0.1% or more molybdenum was fed, gross toxic symptoms were pro duced. The toxic syndrome was characterized by anorexia, loss of weight, alopecia, dermatosis, anemia and death. In some young rabbits a deformity of the front legs developed. The addition of copper to the ration prevented the develop ment of toxicity and the administration of copper caused rapid recovery in rabbits with severe toxic symptoms.

Arrington L. R., Davis G. K..J Nutr. 1953 51 295-304. Molybdenum toxicity in the rabbit.

Molybdenum and magnesium: metabolism rats effect
The Effects of Magnesium Deficiency on Molybdenum Metabolism in Rats

Our previous report indicated that magnesium (Mg) deficiency increased molybdenum (Mo) concentration in the rat liver, suggesting the possibility that Mg deficiency affects Mo metabolism. Growing male rats were given a control diet or a Mg-deficient diet for 4 weeks. Urine and feces were collected during the second and fourth weeks of the feeding trial. The liver, kidney, spleen, skeletal muscle, and blood were collected at the end of the feeding trial. Mg deficiency did not affect the apparent absorption of Mo, but it reduced urinary excretion of Mo. The retention of Mo tended to be higher in the Mg-deficient group than in the control group. Hepatic Mo concentration was higher in the Mg-deficient group than in the control group, but Mg deficiency did not affect Mo concentration in other tissues and plasma. Mg deficiency downregulated the mRNA expression of Mo transporter 2 (MOT2) in the liver, but not in the kidney. These results suggest that Mg deficiency decreases urinary Mo excretion, which is too slight to affect plasma Mo concentration, and that Mg deficiency selectively disturbs the homeostatic mechanism of Mo in the liver, which is not related to the mRNA expression of MOT2 in the liver.

Kim, K. H., Funaba, M., Yoshida, M., and Matsui, T., The Effects of Magnesium Deficiency on Molybdenum Metabolism in Rats, Biological Trace Element Research, 2013, 151, 100-104.

The effects of 3,3',4,4'-tetrabromobiphenyl on rats fed diets containing a constant level of copper and varying levels of molybdenum

Copper (Cu) metabolism is altered in rats fed diets high in molybdenum (Mo) and low in Cu.
This 10-week study was carried out to examine the effects of supplemental Mo (7.5-240mug/g diet) on male Sprague-Dawley rats fed diets adequate in Cu (5mug/g diet) and to determine the susceptibility of Mo-treated animals to the environmental pollutant 3,3',4,4'-tetrabromobiphenyl (TBB).
After 7 weeks of dietary treatment, half of the rats in each group received a single IP injection of TBB (150muM/kg bw), while the other half received the corn oil vehicle.
Rats sacrificed at 10 weeks showed no effects of Mo on growth, feed efficiency, or selected organ or tissue weights. Dose-dependent effects on plasma Mo (0-5.1mug/mL), plasma Cu (0.95-0.20mug/mL), and bone Cu (3.4-10mug/g) in control through the high dose were found. Cu sequestration in the bone of Mo-treated rats is a new finding.
TBB treatment resulted in dramatic weight loss and loss of absolute organ mass. Relative organ weights were increased, except for the thymus. TBB altered the concentrations of certain amino acids. Compared to control rats, this polybrominated biphenyl congener significantly decreased plasma Cu and ceruloplasmin at higher concentrations of dietary Mo and promoted the process of plasma Cu decrease by Mo, suggesting a combined effect.

Salman, Kadhim N., Stuart, Mary A., Schmidt, Jack, Borges, T., McClain, Craig J., Robinson, Farrel R., Li, Miao, and Robertson, Larry W., - The effects of 3,3',4,4'-tetrabromobiphenyl on rats fed diets containing a constant level of copper and varying levels of molybdenum, Environmental science and pollution research international, 2014, 21, 6400-9.

Using sodium molybdate to treat chronic copper toxicity in dairy cows: A practical approach

Case history: A Jersey herd of 350 cows and 70 heifers located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand ceased milking in June 2011. Ten cows died during the subsequent 14 days. For at least 9 months, the cows had received palm kernel expeller (PKE) and molasses supplements. Additional Cu supplementation was provided through the water system. Total Cu intake was calculated to be 400 mg/day/cow.

Clinical and pathological findings: Half of the cows died suddenly while others presented with anorexia, depression and ataxia, which progressed to recumbency and death after 1 to 3 days. Clinical signs were mild dehydration, cyanosis and firm faeces which were covered in dark blood. Mean concentrations of Cu in liver and kidney in three of the dead cows were 3,900 and 440 mu mol/kg fresh weight (FW), respectively. Haemorrhages were observed throughout the alimentary tracts and in muscles, and there were ecchymotic haemorrhages on the epi- and endocardia. The livers were swollen and the gall bladder walls were inflamed.

Diagnosis: High concentrations of Cu in the liver and kidney are characteristic findings of chronic Cu toxicity.

Treatment: The remaining herd was fed 200 mg Mo, as sodium molybdate, per cow per day and all Cu supplements were removed including those provided by the water supply. This reduced mean concentrations of Cu in liver from 3,100 to 1,320 mu mol/kg FW within 26 days in the five live animals that were biopsied. There were no further deaths.

Clinical relevance: In dairy herds where excessive Cu intakes have resulted in high liver Cu concentrations and caused chronic Cu toxicity, the removal of all Cu supplements and provision of high intakes of Mo (200 mg/cow/day) can markedly reduce liver Cu stores within 4 weeks.

Morgan, P. L., Grace, N. D., and Lilley, D. P., Using sodium molybdate to treat chronic copper toxicity in dairy cows: A practical approach, New Zealand Veterinary Journal, 2014, 62, 167-170.

Evaluation of Bioaccumulation and Toxic Effects of Copper on Hepatocellular Structure in Mice

The present study was to evaluate the hepatotoxicity effects in mice exposed to copper (Cu) used as dietary supplements for 95 days.

Cu-treated mice showed increased body weight, and no toxic symptoms were observed at the beginning, but the tendency gradually changed with progress of experiment.

In the liver, beneficial metals [Cu, iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo)] were analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The content of Cu maintained at the same level during the experiments, but not resulting in the imbalance of Fe, Zn, Mn, and Mo being distributed.

The activities of alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and super oxidase dismutase (SOD) showed significantly improvement during the first 30 days in Cu-supplemented group (P < 0.01) but declined rapidly from 30th to 60th days, and later, they stabilized and were not statistically significant compared with control (P > 0.05).
No statistically significant correlation of ceruloplasmin (CPL) activity was appreciated during the experiment.
The histopathological and ultrastructural abnormalities changes were observed in the liver of mice including vacuolar degeneration, necrosis, karyorrhexis, and endolysis.

Many hepatocytes showed increased collagenic fibers, appearance of triglyceride droplets, and swollen mitochondria due to oral route of copper, which may lead to lipid peroxidation and free radicals.
In conclusion, our study showed that exposure to copper influenced behavioral pattern and body weight, affected several enzymatic activities, and led to the physiological and considerable structural changes in the liver of mice. The public should pay more attention to avoid being exposed to copper.

Wang, X. Z., Wang, H., Li, J. X., Yang, Z. Q., Zhang, J. Y., Qin, Z., Wang, L., and Kong, X. J., Evaluation of Bioaccumulation and Toxic Effects of Copper on Hepatocellular Structure in Mice, Biological Trace Element Research, 2014, 159, 312-319.

High dietary sulfur decreases the retention of copper, manganese, and zinc in steers

To examine the effects of dietary S on diet digestibility and apparent mineral absorption and retention, 16 steers [8 ruminally fistulated (368 +/- 12 kg BW) and 8 unmodified (388 +/- 10 kg BW)] were paired within modification status and BW, and within each of the 2 consecutive 28-d periods, 4 pairs of steers were randomly assigned to either a low-S (0.24%) or high-S (0.68%) pelleted diet.

Bromegrass hay was fed at 5 or 7% of the diet, during periods 1 and 2, respectively.
Sodium sulfate was used to increase the S content of the high-S diet.

The low-S steers were fed the amount of feed their high-S counterpart consumed the previous day, while the high-S steers received 110% of the previous day's intake.

Steers were adapted to individual metabolism stalls for 4 d (d-3 to 0 of period), acclimated to diet for 7 d (d 1 to 7 of period), and after high-S steers were consuming ad libitum intake for 7 d (d 14 of period), total urine and feces were collected for 5 d. Feed intake and orts were recorded daily. Dry matter and OM digestibility were determined. Jugular blood was collected before and after each collection period on d 14 and 20, and liver biopsies were collected on d 0 and 27. Macromineral (Ca, K, Mg, and Na) and micromineral (Cu, Mn, and Zn) concentrations were determined for pellets and hay, orts, feces, urine, and plasma and liver samples from each steer via inductively coupled plasma spectrometry.

Dry matter intake, DM and OM digestibility, and urine volume were not affected (P >= 0.11) by dietary treatment, but fecal output was greater (P = 0.02) in the low-S steers than the high-S steers.

A high-S diet decreased plasma Cu (P = 0.04) and liver Zn (P = 0.03) compared to low-S steers.

No differences (P >= 0.20) were noted among urinary excretion of Cu, Mn, and Zn.
Sodium absorption was greater (P < 0.01) and Cu, Mn, and Zn retention was lesser (P <= 0.01) in the high-S steers than the low-S steers. Apparent absorption of Ca, K, and Mg was not affected (P >= 0.18) by dietary treatment, while absorption of Cu, Mn, and Zn in the high-S treatment was lesser (P <= 0.06).

In conclusion, consumption of a high-S diet for 28 d had limited effects on Ca, K, Mg, and Na absorption and retention, but decreased Cu, Mn, and Zn retention, which may limit growth and production of cattle consuming a high-S diet long-term.

Pogge, D. J., Drewnoski, M. E., and Hansen, S. L., High dietary sulfur decreases the retention of copper, manganese, and zinc in steers, Journal of Animal Science, 2014, 92, 2182-2191.

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