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Copper (Cu)-based fungicides are widely used in agriculture, but excessive Cu accumulation in soils can pose risks to crop performance, particularly in perennial fruit crops like apples. This study evaluated the physiological responses of three apple varieties—Braeburn, Fuji, and Cripps Pink—under Cu concentrations ranging from 0 to 20 mg Cu kg⁻¹ using a callus media system. Key traits including the callus growth, fresh and dry weight, copper accumulation, tolerance index (TI), and bioaccumulation factor (BCF) were assessed. The results revealed that high Cu concentrations significantly inhibited the callus growth and biomass. Braeburn's growth was notably reduced to 0.27 times the control at 15 mg Cu kg−1, and Fuji showed no growth at concentrations above 10 mg Cu kg−1. Cripps Pink displayed greater tolerance, maintaining growth even at 20 mg Cu kg−1. Copper accumulation peaked in Fuji at 4200 mg kg−1 at 20 mg Cu kg−1, while Cripps Pink's BCF peaked at 120 under 15 mg Cu kg−1. The TI for Cripps Pink consistently exceeded 100% across all Cu levels, contrasting with Fuji's TI, which dropped significantly at 15 mg Cu kg−1. These findings suggest that maintaining soil Cu levels below critical thresholds is essential to preserve varietal performance and inform Cu management practices in apple cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specific recognition and detoxification for copper is the key step for the early diagnosis and treatment of various diseases such as neurodegenerative disease and Wilson's disease. Herein, a Chlorella vulgaris‐inspired versatile theranostic nanoparticles is facilely and greenly prepared by assembling quercetin into poly(beta‐cyclodextrin) (PQNPs), which is further employed in the specific recognition and detoxification for Cu2+ in vitro and in vivo. PQNPs can be used in the detection of Cu2+ in aqueous solutions with fast response time (<5 s) and low detection limit (6.499 nM). The detection for Cu2+ in water and serum can be achieved by naked eye instantaneously on a PQNPs‐based paper sensor, and PQNPs can also act as a biological diagnostic agent for the Cu2+ imaging. Remarkably, PQNPs significantly enhance cell viability of the cell models induced by Cu2+ through the synergistic capacities of chelating Cu2+ and antioxidation. The detoxification of PQNPs for copper poisoning model is further ascertained in vivo, and it found that poly‐β‐cyclodextrin is capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier. Taken together, the as‐prepared versatile theranostic nanoparticles possess advantages of simple composition, significant theranostic efficacy, and novel treatment pattern, presenting an intriguing avenue to develop therapeutics for tackling abnormal copper metabolism in the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The podocyte cytoskeleton determines the stability of podocyte structure and function, and their imbalance plays a pathogenic role in podocyte diseases. However, the underlying mechanism of podocyte cytoskeleton damage is not fully understood. Here, we investigate the specific role of cuproptosis in inducing podocyte cytoskeleton injury. In in vitro and in vivo studies, exposure to high levels of copper and adriamycin (ADR) caused significant increases in copper concentration in intracellular and renal tissue. Moreover, excessive accumulation of copper induced cuproptosis, resulting in the destruction of the podocyte cytoskeleton. However, inhibition of copper accumulation to reduce cuproptosis also significantly alleviated the damage of podocyte cytoskeleton. In addition, inhibition of cuproptosis mitigated ADR-induced mitochondrial damage as well as the production of reactive oxygen species and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential, and restored adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis. Among the transcriptome sequencing data, the difference of CXCL5 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 5) was the most significant. Both high copper and ADR exposure can cause upregulation of CXCL5, and CXCL5 deletion inhibits the occurrence of cuproptosis, thereby alleviating the podocyte cytoskeleton damage. This suggests that CXCL5 may act upstream of cuproptosis that mediates podocyte cytoskeleton damage. In conclusion, cuproptosis induced by excessive copper accumulation may induce podocyte cytoskeleton damage by promoting mitochondrial dysfunction, thereby causing podocyte injury. This indicates that cuproptosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of podocyte injury and provides a basis for seeking potential targets for the treatment of chronic kidney disease. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: Cuproptosis induced by excessive copper accumulation leads to podocyte cytoskeleton damage by promoting mitochondrial dysfunction, and CXCL5 acts as an upstream signal mediating the occurrence of cuproptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of copper (Cu) intoxication and deficiency continues to impact economic gains and animal welfare in sheep husbandry. This study investigated the ovine genome for regions and potential genes under selection for Cu accretion between sheep breeds. For this, we compared ovine single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data of three Cu-susceptible breeds with three Cu-tolerant breeds. After merging SNP data of breeds and removal of related individuals, a total of 229 sheep and 45 640 autosomal SNPs were left. Then, we selected 14 individuals per breed into two datasets (datasets 1 and 2) for analysis of selection signatures using the Fixation index, cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity and haplotype-based FLK methods. Selection regions shared by both datasets detected by at least two methods revealed regions on OAR 4, 8 and 11 containing 54 candidate genes under selection for Cu accretion. Enrichment analysis revealed that 19 gene ontologies and 1 enriched Kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes pathway terms were associated with the candidate genes under selection. Genes such as TP53, TNFSF13, TNFSF12, ALOX15, ALOX12, EIF5A and PREP are associated with the regulation of Cu homeostasis, programmed cell death or inflammatory response. We also found an enrichment of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase activity, arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase activity and ferroptosis that influence cellular inflammation and cell death. These results shed light on ovine genomic regions under selection for Cu accretion and provide information on candidate genes for further studies on breed differences in ovine Cu accretion.

Wilson disease (WD) is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder manifested with varying clinical presentations including hepatic, neurological, psychiatric, and ophthalmological features, often in combination. Causative mutations in the ATP7B gene result in copper accumulation in hepatocytes and/or neurons, but clinical diagnosis remains challenging. Diagnosis is complicated by mild, non-specific presentations, mutations exerting no clear effect on protein function, and inconclusive laboratory tests, particularly regarding serum ceruloplasmin levels. As early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial to prevent progressive damage, we report here on the establishment of a global collaboration of researchers, clinicians, and patient advocacy groups to identify and address the outstanding challenges posed by WD.

The long-term use of copper (Cu)-based fungicide sprays in orchards is associated with changes in soil Cu levels. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the potential accumulation of Cu in orchards and the associated impacts on the soil microbial structure. This study assessed the possibility of Cu accumulation in different avocado orchard farms and further evaluated the potential effect on soil microbial activities. Soil Cu levels were quantified in Tauranga and Northland, and three avocado orchards were analysed in each experimental location. All avocado farms in both sites received Cu-based fungicide sprays for over eight years. Soil samples were collected at a 0–20 cm depth from all six orchards. The soil total and bioavailable Cu, changes in soil chemical properties, microbial biomass, dehydrogenase activity, alkaline phosphatase activity, and acid phosphatase activity were measured. The results revealed that the total Cu and bioavailable Cu concentrations in Tauranga orchards were 81.3 and 0.32, 196.7 and 0.82, and 33.6 and 0.31 mg Cu kg−1 in Farms 1, 2, and 3, respectively. In Northland orchards, the total Cu and bioavailable Cu were 54.5 and 0.06, 18.4 and 0.77, and 46 and 0.34 mg Cu kg−1 in Farm 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Five out of six of the avocado orchard farms assessed in this study had total Cu concentrations greater than 30 mg Cu kg−1 reported in New Zealand native land. The magnitude of Cu accumulation was linked with soil pH and C content. No clear trend was observed between soil Cu concentrations and the soil microbial activity. Our study results demonstrated that the long-term use of Cu-based fungicide sprays can elevate Cu concentrations in orchard soils. Mitigation strategies need to be explored to abate the accumulation of Cu in orchard soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although copper is an essential element for any organism's well-being, it becomes toxic if present in excess. In the present study, copper was provisioned at 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg in an artificial diet and fed to juvenile larvae of cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae), for 4 generations. The results of this investigation exhibited shortening of larval life in the first 2 generations, but extended duration was observed in third and fourth generations compared to controls, and dietary copper caused reduced total hemocyte counts in all treatments. The number of immunocytes (i.e. granulocytes and plasmatocytes) were also significantly reduced. The changes in activities of certain important enzymes, including catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidases, were seen. Furthermore, after treatment, an increase in the activity of 2 detoxifying enzymes, glutathione s-transferase and acetylcholinesterase, was observed. It is clear that metallothioneins are important in maintaining essential and nonessential metal ion homeostasis. While copper is typically regarded as an important essential metal in an organism's life, excessive amounts can have deteriorating effects. This heavy metal is being used as a nano-based pesticide. Therefore, the present investigation aims to determine the fate of Cu in insects receiving them in new formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper (Cu), as an essential microelement for plant growth, may have impacts on root activity and function under excessive conditions, thereby affecting the physiology and growth of plants. One-year-old golden dewdrop (Duranta erecta) cuttings were treated with six Cu2+ levels of 0.2, 2.0, 20.0, 200.0, and 2000.0 mmol L-1 for 7, 21, and 35 days by hydroponic culture with 0.0 mmol L-1 as the control. The obvious negative effects of 200.0 and 2000.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ on the aboveground and belowground parts of D. erecta were observed after 35 days of treatment. The root activity at 20.0, 200.0, and 2000.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ was 16%, 21%, and 22% lower than the control, while no significant difference between 2.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ and the control. The net photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate showed a decreasing trend with treatment time when Cu2+ concentration was higher than 20.0 mmol L-1. The chlorophyll contents, leaf circumference, and leaf area at 2.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ were significantly higher than the control and other Cu2+ treatments. The Cu concentration of roots, stems, and leaves at 2000.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ was 22.9, 3.3, and 2.7 times higher than the control. Our results indicate that 2000.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ destroyed the root function, causing excessive Cu accumulation in the roots, stems and leaves, consequently decreasing plant physiology and growth. Based on the short-term results, 2.0 mmol L-1 Cu2+ was the suitable concentration for D. erecta in hydroponic culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to identify the clinical variables of Wilson's disease (WD) among males and females in the local population. Wilson disease is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder that causes copper (Cu) accumulation in the body's liver, brain, and other vital organs. This research is being conducted to check the association of various symptoms of WD among males and females. A sample of 49 patients was obtained from different hospitals in Wah Cantt, Punjab, Pakistan. Among those, 29 were male and 20 were female. Frequency and percentage were computed for qualitative variables, while we used the mean and standard deviation to describe quantitative variables. The chi-square technique was used to check the significance of clinical variants of Wilson's disease among males and females. Maximum respondents, ages ranging from 16 to 20 years, were categorized into intervals. Among females, the frequency percentage was greater than that of males. In the population where parental cousin marriage (PCM) existed, there was a lower frequency percentage compared to those where consanguinity didn't exist, and the calculated p-value demonstrates that the results are significant at the 1% level. Yellow sclera had a higher frequency percentage in males than females, so the calculated p-value indicated that the results were significant at the 1% level. The prevalence of chronic liver disease was higher in men as compared to women. The calculated p-value indicated that the results are significant at 5%. Antinuclear antibodies don't exist among males and females, and the computed p-value indicated that they don't exist. The Keyser-Fischer (KF) ring presence was observed in a higher ratio in females than males, and the calculated p-value suggested that a relationship does not exist. The percentage of the absence of the symptom Spider Nivai was 100% among males and females, as it is not as recurring in Wilson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess copper (Cu) imparts negative effects on plant growth and productivity in soil. To develop the ability of O. biennis to govern pollution soil containing excessive Cu, we investigated seed germination, seedling growth, and seed yield. Furthermore, Cu content and the expression levels of Cu transport related genes in different tissues were measured under exogenous high concentration Cu. O. biennis seeds were sensitive to excess Cu, with an observed reduction in the germination rate, primary root length, fresh weight, and number of seeds germinated daily. Consecutive Cu stress did not cause fatal damage to evening primrose, yet it slowed down plant growth slightly by reducing the leaf water, chlorophyll, plant yield, and seed oil contents while increasing the soluble sugar, proline, malondialdehyde, and H2O2 contents. The Cu content in different organs of O. biennis was disrupted by excess Cu. In particular, the Cu content in O. biennis seeds and seed oil increased and subsequently decreased with the increase of exogenous Cu, reaching a peak under 600 mg·kg−1 consecutive Cu. Furthermore, the 4-month 900 mg·kg−1 Cu treatment did not induce the excessive accumulation of Cu in peels, seeds, and seed oil, maintaining the Cu content within the range required by the Chinese National Food Safety Standards. The treatment also resulted in an upregulation of Cu-uptake (ObCOPT5, ObZIP4, and ObYSL2) and vigorous efflux (ObHMA1) of transport genes, of which expression levels were significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) with the Cu content. Among all organs, the stem replaced the root as the organ exhibited the greatest ability to absorb and store Cu, and even the Cu transport genes could still function continuously in stem under excess Cu. This work identified a species that can tolerate high Cu content in soil while maintaining a high yield. Furthermore, the results revealed the enrichment of Cu to occur primarily in the O. biennis stem rather than the seeds and peel under excess Cu.

The long-term use of copper (Cu) fungicides in viticulture in Europe has led to Cu accumulation in vineyard top soils. However, less is known about the accumulation of Cu in grapevine grafts after the callusing process/before planting in the nursery. This paper presents the capacity of 5BB and SO4 rootstocks to accumulate Cu, as well as the patterns of translocation in the grafts. After heat forcing (callusing), the grapevine grafts of Sauvignon Blanc on 5BB and SO4 rootstocks were grown in pots for six months in a glasshouse and exposed to various Cu formulations (Cu-oxychloride, Cu-gluconate) and concentrations in peat (50, 150, 500, and 1000 mg Cu of dry weight (DW)). In addition to monitoring the shoot growth dynamics and analyzing the copper content in graft organs, bioaccumulation (BAFs) and translocation factors (TFs) of Cu were calculated. The mean Cu concentrations were ranked as follows: roots (15–164) > rootstock trunks (8–38) > canes (5–21) mg kg−1 DW. The Cu concentrations depended on the Cu formulation and concentration in the substrate. Higher Cu content was found in the roots of both rootstocks (5BB and SO4, 23–155 and 15–164 mg kg−1 DW, respectively) and the lowest in the canes (less than 10 mg kg−1 DW) of grafts grown in Cu-oxychloride-treated peat. Based on the BAFs and TFs, both rootstocks could be considered as Cu exclusive. A higher translocation rate was determined in systemic Cu-gluconate and SO4 rootstock. With shoot length measurements, the significant inhibitory effects of Cu on grapevine grafts growth could not be confirmed, despite the inhibitory effects that were clearly expressed in the first two months of growth. Soils containing more than 500 mg Cu/kg−1 are less suitable for growing vine grafts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The projected ocean acidification (OA) associated with increasing atmospheric CO2 alters seawater chemistry and hence the bio-toxicity of metal ions. However, it is still unclear how OA might affect the long-term resilience of globally important marine microalgae to anthropogenic metal stress. To explore the effect of increasing pCO2 on copper metabolism in the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana (CCMP 1335), we employed an integrated eco-physiological, analytical chemistry, and transcriptomic approach to clarify the effect of increasing pCO2 on copper metabolism of Thalassiosira pseudonana across different temporal (short-term vs. longterm) and spatial (indoor laboratory experiments vs. outdoor mesocosms experiments) scales. We found that increasing pCO2 (1,000 and 2,000 μatm) promoted growth and photosynthesis, but decreased copper accumulation and alleviated its bio-toxicity to T. pseudonana. Transcriptomics results indicated that T. pseudonana altered the copper detoxification strategy under OA by decreasing copper uptake and enhancing copper-thiol complexation and copper efflux. Biochemical analysis further showed that the activities of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and phytochelatin synthetase (PCS) were enhanced to mitigate oxidative damage of copper stress under elevated CO2. Our results provide a basis for a better understanding of the bioremediation capacity of marine primary producers, which may have profound effect on the security of seafood quality and marine ecosystem sustainability under further climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Problem of copper intoxication and deficiency exists in sheep husbandry. • Sheep breeds differ in their accumulation of copper. • Selection signals for breed differences in copper accretion were assessed. • Identified candidate regions and genes are involved in inflammation and cell death. • This study may help to understand the genetic basis for copper accretion in sheep. The problem of copper (Cu) intoxication and deficiency continues to impact economic gains and animal welfare in sheep husbandry. This study investigated the ovine genome for regions and potential genes under selection for Cu accretion between sheep breeds. For this, we compared ovine single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data of three Cu-susceptible breeds with three Cu-tolerant breeds. After merging SNP data of breeds and removal of related individuals, a total of 229 sheep and 45 640 autosomal SNPs were left. Then, we selected 14 individuals per breed into two datasets (datasets 1 and 2) for analysis of selection signatures using the Fixation index, cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity and haplotype-based FLK methods. Selection regions shared by both datasets detected by at least two methods revealed regions on OAR 4, 8 and 11 containing 54 candidate genes under selection for Cu accretion. Enrichment analysis revealed that 19 gene ontologies and 1 enriched Kyoto encyclopaedia of genes and genomes pathway terms were associated with the candidate genes under selection. Genes such as TP53 , TNFSF13 , TNFSF12 , ALOX15 , ALOX12 , EIF5A and PREP are associated with the regulation of Cu homeostasis, programmed cell death or inflammatory response. We also found an enrichment of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase activity, arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase activity and ferroptosis that influence cellular inflammation and cell death. These results shed light on ovine genomic regions under selection for Cu accretion and provide information on candidate genes for further studies on breed differences in ovine Cu accretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The projected ocean acidification (OA) associated with increasing atmospheric CO2 alters seawater chemistry and hence the bio-toxicity of metal ions. However, it is still unclear how OA might affect the long-term resilience of globally important marine microalgae to anthropogenic metal stress. To explore the effect of increasing pCO2 on copper metabolism in the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana (CCMP 1335), we employed an integrated eco-physiological, analytical chemistry, and transcriptomic approach to clarify the effect of increasing pCO2 on copper metabolism of Thalassiosira pseudonana across different temporal (short-term vs. long-term) and spatial (indoor laboratory experiments vs. outdoor mesocosms experiments) scales. We found that increasing pCO2 (1,000 and 2,000 μatm) promoted growth and photosynthesis, but decreased copper accumulation and alleviated its bio-toxicity to T. pseudonana. Transcriptomics results indicated that T. pseudonana altered the copper detoxification strategy under OA by decreasing copper uptake and enhancing copper-thiol complexation and copper efflux. Biochemical analysis further showed that the activities of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and phytochelatin synthetase (PCS) were enhanced to mitigate oxidative damage of copper stress under elevated CO2. Our results provide a basis for a better understanding of the bioremediation capacity of marine primary producers, which may have profound effect on the security of seafood quality and marine ecosystem sustainability under further climate change.

The production of wine dates to ancient civilization and has heavily influenced different landscapes around the globe. Nowadays, wine is still an important sector in terms of land use and income source in many countries, more specifically in the European Mediterranean region. However, to control pests and regulate wine growth, the extensive use of pesticides is common. The effects and persistence of agrochemicals in the environment is well known and defined in scientific literature as well as the environmental and human health risks of these compounds. The purpose of this review was to do a state of art of worldwide production of academic literature using bibliometric principles and analysis to identify thematic areas of this type of agriculture, and its challenges in a changing world. For this review, the focus is on current practices to see what may evolve for more sustainable viticulture. It was found that the three main producers of wine, i.e., Spain, France, and Italy, are also three top producers of scientific literature on this topic. The use of bibliometric methodologies defined the main thematic areas on this subject as follows: soil–plant transfer of agrochemicals, heavy metal accumulation in vineyard soils, management practices in viticulture, water pollution transport, effects of viticulture on the living part of soil, sustainable alternatives to pesticides. We found that Spain, France, and Italy work the most on developing sustainable alternatives for agricultural practices; however, sustainable alternatives and practices were also the least developed thematic in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term use of copper (Cu) fungicides in viticulture in Europe has led to Cu accumulation in vineyard top soils. However, less is known about the accumulation of Cu in grapevine grafts after the callusing process/before planting in the nursery. This paper presents the capacity of 5BB and SO4 rootstocks to accumulate Cu, as well as the patterns of translocation in the grafts. After heat forcing (callusing), the grapevine grafts of Sauvignon Blanc on 5BB and SO4 rootstocks were grown in pots for six months in a glasshouse and exposed to various Cu formulations (Cu-oxychloride, Cu-gluconate) and concentrations in peat (50, 150, 500, and 1000 mg Cu of dry weight (DW)). In addition to monitoring the shoot growth dynamics and analyzing the copper content in graft organs, bioaccumulation (BAFs) and translocation factors (TFs) of Cu were calculated. The mean Cu concentrations were ranked as follows: roots (15–164) > rootstock trunks (8–38) > canes (5–21) mg kg−1 DW. The Cu concentrations depended on the Cu formulation and concentration in the substrate. Higher Cu content was found in the roots of both rootstocks (5BB and SO4, 23–155 and 15–164 mg kg−1 DW, respectively) and the lowest in the canes (less than 10 mg kg−1 DW) of grafts grown in Cu-oxychloride-treated peat. Based on the BAFs and TFs, both rootstocks could be considered as Cu exclusive. A higher translocation rate was determined in systemic Cu-gluconate and SO4 rootstock. With shoot length measurements, the significant inhibitory effects of Cu on grapevine grafts growth could not be confirmed, despite the inhibitory effects that were clearly expressed in the first two months of growth. Soils containing more than 500 mg Cu/kg−1 are less suitable for growing vine grafts.

Aziz Rahman Rasib,1 Aemal Aziz Jabarkhil,1 Mohammad Faiq Sediqi,2,3 Ahmad Irshad Mansoor,1,4 Abdullah Asady5 1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, 1001, Afghanistan; 2Department of Histology, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, 1001, Afghanistan; 3Department of Basic Medical Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, 25200, Malaysia; 4Division of Psychology & Systems Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; 5Department of Microbiology, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, 1001, AfghanistanCorrespondence: Aziz Rahman RasibDepartment of Neuropsychiatry, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, 1001, AfghanistanTel +93 797089250Email azizrahmanrasib@gmail.comAbstract: Wilson’s disease (WD) is a rare inherited impaired copper metabolism with diverse clinical pictures dominated by hepatic and neurologic manifestations. We report the case of a 14-year-old female patient who attended the Department of Neuropsychiatry at Ali Abad Teaching Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan, with generalized tonic-clonic seizure and cerebellar dysfunction. The patient was initially diagnosed as encephalitis and epilepsy and finally diagnosed with WD based on the clinical and laboratory findings. After 6 months of follow-up, the patient showed substantial clinical recovery.Keywords: Wilson’s disease, copper accumulation, KF rings, seizure, cerebellar dysfunction

Soil contamination by excess heavy metals or trace elements is a global concern, as these elements are highly bioaccumulated in living organisms, migrating throughout the food chain, and causing health problems. Sustainable technologies, using plants, have been increasingly studied and used to contain, reduce, or extract these elements from the soil. In this sense, it is essential to identify plant species that tolerate certain elements, present high biomass production and are resistant to adverse soil conditions. For this reason, we evaluated the biomass production and tolerance of Cajanus cajan in response to different concentrations of copper (30, 60, 120, and 240 mg/dm3, in addition to the control treatment) in the soil, as well as the effect of this metal on photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange. C. cajan was sown in soil previously contaminated with copper sulfate and cultivated in a greenhouse for 60 days after emergence. C. cajan is copper tolerant, approximately 88% copper is accumulated in the roots and therefore there is low copper translocation to the shoot, consequently, the chlorophyll content, the net photosynthesis rate, carbon assimilation, dry biomass, the root system development, and nodulation were not affected by copper. C. cajan can be explored in strategies to improve soil conditions and is a promising species in soil phytoremediation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilson disease (WD) is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder manifested with varying clinical presentations including hepatic, neurological, psychiatric, and ophthalmological features, often in combination. Causative mutations in the ATP7B gene result in copper accumulation in hepatocytes and/or neurons, but clinical diagnosis remains challenging. Diagnosis is complicated by mild, non-specific presentations, mutations exerting no clear effect on protein function, and inconclusive laboratory tests, particularly regarding serum ceruloplasmin levels. As early diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial to prevent progressive damage, we report here on the establishment of a global collaboration of researchers, clinicians, and patient advocacy groups to identify and address the outstanding challenges posed by WD.

Cuproptosis is an emerging programmed cell death, displaying great potential in cancer treatment. However, intracellular copper content to induce cuproptosis is unmet, which mainly ascribes to the intracellular pumping out equilibrium mechanism by copper exporter ATP7A and ATP7B. Therefore, it is necessary to break such export balance mechanisms for desired cuproptosis. Mediated by diethyldithiocarbamate (DTC) coordination, herein a strategy to efficiently assemble copper ions into polydopamine nanostructure (PDA-DTC/Cu) for reprogramming copper metabolism of tumor is developed. The deposited Cu 2+ can effectively trigger the aggregation of lipoylated proteins to induce cuproptosis of tumor cells. Beyond elevating intracellular copper accumulation, PDA-DTC/Cu enables to break the balance of copper metabolism by disrupting mitochondrial function and restricting the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) energy supply, thus catalytically inhibiting the expressions of ATP7A and ATP7B of tumor cells to enhance cuproptosis. Meanwhile, the killed tumor cells can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) to stimulate the immune response. Besides, PDA-DTC/Cu NPs can promote the repolarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs ) to relieve the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME). Collectively, PDA-DTC/Cu presented a promising "one stone two birds" strategy to realize copper accumulation and inhibit copper export simultaneously to enhance cuproptosis for 4T1 murine breast cancer immunotherapy., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

In this study, the rate of copper accumulation in mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and sea snail (Rapana venosa) organisms exposed to acutely different non-lethal copper concentrations was investigated for 5 days under laboratory conditions. All soft tissue concentrations were analyzed using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrophotometer. At the end of accumulation, the rate of increase of copper level in mussel and snail soft tissues in different aquariums was found to be 19.19–36.93 and 2.37–7.41 times higher for mussel and snail soft tissues than before exposure, respectively. Differences in metal accumulation at the end of the experiment between species were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In addition, bio-concentration factor and rates of accumulation values were calculated for both organisms. The corresponding bio-concentration factor values for mussels after exposure to 0.12, 0.36, and 0.60 mg L−1 copper were 406.00, 168.41, and 165.16, respectively, while the corresponding bio-concentration factor values for snails after exposure to 0.12, 0.36, and 0.60 mg L−1 copper were 276.29, 272.12, and 265.73, respectively. While accumulation rate values were 10.15, 12.26, and 20.12 for mussels exposed to 0.12, 0.36, and 0.60 mg L−1 copper, respectively, accumulation rate values were 6.85, 19.76, and 31.69 for snails exposed to 0.12, 0.36, and 0.60 mg L−1 copper, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess copper (Cu) imparts negative effects on plant growth and productivity in soil. To develop the ability of O. biennis to govern pollution soil containing excessive Cu, we investigated seed germination, seedling growth, and seed yield. Furthermore, Cu content and the expression levels of Cu transport related genes in different tissues were measured under exogenous high concentration Cu. O. biennis seeds were sensitive to excess Cu, with an observed reduction in the germination rate, primary root length, fresh weight, and number of seeds germinated daily. Consecutive Cu stress did not cause fatal damage to evening primrose, yet it slowed down plant growth slightly by reducing the leaf water, chlorophyll, plant yield, and seed oil contents while increasing the soluble sugar, proline, malondialdehyde, and H 2 O 2 contents. The Cu content in different organs of O. biennis was disrupted by excess Cu. In particular, the Cu content in O. biennis seeds and seed oil increased and subsequently decreased with the increase of exogenous Cu, reaching a peak under 600 mg·kg−1 consecutive Cu. Furthermore, the 4-month 900 mg·kg−1 Cu treatment did not induce the excessive accumulation of Cu in peels, seeds, and seed oil, maintaining the Cu content within the range required by the Chinese National Food Safety Standards. The treatment also resulted in an upregulation of Cu-uptake (ObCOPT5 , ObZIP4 , and ObYSL2) and vigorous efflux (ObHMA1) of transport genes, of which expression levels were significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) with the Cu content. Among all organs, the stem replaced the root as the organ exhibited the greatest ability to absorb and store Cu, and even the Cu transport genes could still function continuously in stem under excess Cu. This work identified a species that can tolerate high Cu content in soil while maintaining a high yield. Furthermore, the results revealed the enrichment of Cu to occur primarily in the O. biennis stem rather than the seeds and peel under excess Cu. • Oenothera biennis had strong resistance of copper toxicity. • Excess Cu caused copper enrichment in O. biennis stems mainly. • Edible O. biennis seeds did not accumulate excessive copper. • Copper transporters activity was disrupted by excess Cu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land-use intensification, contrary to sustainable land management, has an impact on the healthiness of the environmental agroecosystem. To assess the environmental implications in abandoned land, olive groves and maize crops, the most sensitive and reliable edaphic indicators were measured to estimate plant species diversity and potentially toxic elements in soil, among different types of land-use. Species diversity presents a decrease in maize crops and olive groves compared to abandoned land. The families with the greatest species diversity were Poaceae , Asteraceae and Fabaceae in each land-use. From the results of the canonical correspondence analysis among species, sampling sites and selected environmental variables, a clear separation between species and sampling sites belonging to different types of land-use was found, presenting strong correlation with specific edaphic parameters (pH, Soil Organic Matter, Silt, Electrical Conductivity, Total Nitrogen, N O 3 - , P, K, Zn and Cu). Species diversity was reduced in maize crops due to anthropogenic interventions such as the excessive use of nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers and herbicides. Despite the fact that the lowest richness of plant species was found in olive groves, non-removal of crop residue preserves soil organic matter. In 7.4% of soil samples in olive groves, Cu total concentrations were over 100 mg kg−1 denoting polluted soils, while the potentially toxic concentrations of bioavailable copper fraction ( Cu DTPA ) probably lead to a decrease of species diversity. Future researches should therefore focus on the accumulation of toxic elements in agricultural land to preserve species diversity and a healthy environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty liver is widely observed during Takifugu fasciatus production, but the mechanisms underlying fatty liver formation remain unknown. The present study was conducted to determine the potential effects of copper (Cu) on hepatic lipid deposition and metabolism in T. fasciatus after 21 days of exposure to Cu (levels: 0, 20 and 100 μg/L). Copper exposure decreased the weight gain rate (WG) in T. fasciatus , but increased the values of the viscerosomatic index (VSI) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) compared with the control. The time-dependent Cu accumulation in tissues increased as the Cu concentration increased. The order of Cu accumulation was liver > intestine > muscle. The lipid content, triglyceride (TG) content and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity increased after Cu exposure compared with the control. In addition, more lipid droplets and greater vacuolization were observed in the liver after exposure to 20 μg/L Cu than after 100 μg/L Cu. The expression of genes involved in lipogenesis (g6pd, 6pgd, lpl, fas and acc), lipolysis (hsl and cpt 1) and transcription (ppar α and ppar ©) was dependent on Cu. An analysis of the intestinal microbiome community showed that the highest values of the Chao 1 index, ACE, Shannon index and Simpson index were obtained in fish exposed to 20 μg/L Cu, whereas the lowest values were obtained after the 100 μg/L Cu treatment. The Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) plots of the data revealed structural differences in the groups treated with Cu compared with the control group. At the phylum level, the intestinal microbiota in the Cu-treated and control fish were dominated by Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. The higher Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio was observed in fish treated with 20 μg/L Cu compared with other groups, while the lowest ratio was observed in fish exposed to 100 μg/L Cu. Our study revealed the mechanisms by which Cu exposure altered (i) lipid deposition in the body and (ii) the intestinal microbiome, which may contribute to maintain the health status of T. fasciatus for the aquaculture. Image 1 • The first to study the mechanism of fatty liver formation in T. fasciatus. • Copper accumulated in the fish body and inhibited the growth of T. fasciatus. • Copper inducing fatty liver formation by inducing the fat synthesis genes expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate usage of CuSO4 as a herbicide with no toxicity mainly depends on water calcium hardness. This study aims to investigate the effect of initial exposure to CaCO3 for the reduction of CuSO4 toxicity in Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758). One group of 300 fish (6 ± 0.05 g) were placed in a tank containing 200 mg.L-1 of CaCO3 for 2 weeks while another group of 300 fish was maintained at normal conditions. All 600 fish were then exposed to CuSO4 at 0.0, 1.5, and 3.0 mg.L-1 for 60 days so that the fish weight, length and condition factor decreased significantly at increasing CuSo4 with higher values seen in the fish pre-exposed to calcium (P < 0.01). The highest mortality was observed in 3 mg.L-1 of copper treatment without calcium exposure. The feed conversion ratio was elevated with an increase copper concentration. Also, the red and white blood cells, haemoglobin, and haematocrit decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at increasing copper concentration in the group that were pre-exposed to calcium. The amount of copper in muscle was elevated at increasing copper concentration, but was less in the group pre-exposed to CaCO3. Thus, preexposure to CaCO3 could reduce copper toxicity, especially at low concentrations of CuSO4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appropriate usage of CuSO4 as a herbicide with no toxicity mainly depends on water calcium hardness. This study aims to investigate the effect of initial exposure to CaCO3 for the reduction of CuSO4 toxicity in Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758). One group of 300 fish (6 ± 0.05 g) were placed in a tank containing 200 mg.L-1 of CaCO3 for 2 weeks while another group of 300 fish was maintained at normal conditions. All 600 fish were then exposed to CuSO4 at 0.0, 1.5, and 3.0 mg.L-1 for 60 days so that the fish weight, length and condition factor decreased significantly at increasing CuSo4 with higher values seen in the fish pre-exposed to calcium (P < 0.01). The highest mortality was observed in 3 mg.L-1 of copper treatment without calcium exposure. The feed conversion ratio was elevated with an increase copper concentration. Also, the red and white blood cells, haemoglobin, and haematocrit decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at increasing copper concentration in the group that were pre-exposed to calcium. The amount of copper in muscle was elevated at increasing copper concentration, but was less in the group pre-exposed to CaCO3. Thus, preexposure to CaCO3 could reduce copper toxicity, especially at low concentrations of CuSO4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays the pollution of soil by trace metals from the mining industry is one of the biggest threats to ecosystems and human health. In this study, sixteen native wild plant species growing in Cu contaminated soils of mining region in Armenia were investigated to reveal their phytoremediation potential for restoration of soils in this area. During the investigation soil main characteristics affecting the Cu accumulation capability of plants were also determined. In roots (dry weight) of dominant plant species growing in Cu contaminated areas the content of copper varied between 55 mg/kg (Hypericum perforatum) and 775 mg/kg (Thymus kotschyanus), and in shoots of plants - in the range from 33 mg/kg (Teucrium orientale) to 243 mg/kg (Phleum pratense). Since the Cu accumulation capability of plants depends both on physiological peculiarities of plants and on the content of Cu bioavailable in the soil, the studies were carried out in this direction and it was found that the high contents of organic matter and clay in the soil facilitated the decrease of the ratio Cu bioavailable /Cu total and as a result - the decrease of Cu accumulation capability of plants. Thymus kotschyanus , Phleum pratense , and Achillea millefolium had the highest phytostabilization potential from all studied plant species due to high bioconcentration factor of root (BCF root) and low translocation factor (TF) values registered in these plants, and further field and laboratory experiments are planned to confirm this useful ability. The detection of phytoremediation potential of wild plant species growing in areas polluted by trace metals will enable us to use eco-friendly and cost-effective remediation methods, utterly required to clean up the soils in the mining regions of Armenia. Image 1 • Bioavailable copper in the soil primarily depends on copper total soil content. • The ratio Cu bioavailable /Cu total in the soil mostly depends on humus content. • Some native wild plants carry out quite balanced uptake and translocation of Cu. • Thymus kotschyanus and Phleum pratense have high phytostabilization potential. • Thymus kotschyanus , Achillea millefolium have high adaptation to soil pollution by Cu. Thymus kotschyanus and Phleum pratense have high phytostabilization potential in copper polluted soils and adaptation to soil pollution by this trace metal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of phytoremediation potential of wild plant species in areas polluted by metals is very important, as it will enable the use of eco-friendly remediation methods in these territories. Sixteen native wild plant species growing in Cu-contaminated soils of a mining region in Armenia were investigated to reveal their phytoremediation potential. In roots (dry weight) of dominant plant species in this area the content of copper varied between 55 mg/kg (Hypericum perforatum) and 775 mg/kg (Thymus kotschyanus), and in shoots of plants in the range from 33 mg/kg (Teucrium orientale) to 243 mg/kg (Phleum pratense). Since the Cu accumulation capability of plants depends both on physiological peculiarities of the plants and on the content of Cubioavailable in the soil, the studies were carried out in this direction and it was found out that the high contents of soil organic matter (SOM) and clay in the soil facilitated the decrease of the ratio Cubioavailable/Cutotal and as a result, the decrease of Cu accumulation capability of plants. Thymus kotschyanus, Phleum pratense and Achillea millefolium had the highest phytostabilization potential from all studied species due to high bioconcentration factors of their roots (BCFroot) and low translocation factors (TF) registered in these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to analyze the involvement of intracellular thiol-chelators in the accumulation and detoxification of copper, the marine alga Ulva compressa was cultivated with increasing concentrations of copper such as 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 μM for up to 12 d, and the amount of intracellular copper, glutathione (GSH), phytochelatins (PCs) and transcripts encoding three metallothioneins (MTs) were determined. Over this exposure period and concentration range there was a linear correlation between intracellular copper and the copper concentration in the culture medium. Increases in GSH concentrations occurred mainly between days 1 and 3 and at lower concentrations of copper (2.5 and 5 μM). The level of PCs, and particularly PC2, increased from day 1 of exposure mainly at higher concentrations of copper (7.5 and 10 μM). The levels of transcripts encoding MT7 increased at day 3, whereas those of MT3 and MT6 increased between days 9–12, mainly at higher concentrations of copper. Thus in U. compressa , the initial responses to increasing intracellular copper concentrations are increases in GSH and PCs that are followed by higher levels of MTs expression, suggesting that thiol-containing peptides and proteins may participate in copper accumulation and detoxification responding in a coordinated and complementary manner. In addition, the alga was cultivated with 10 μM copper for 5 d and transferred to synthetic seawater with no copper and cultivated for 3 d. The release of copper from cells to culture medium was observed and accompanied by a similar nanomolar amount of GSH; no PCs or small proteins were detected. These results could suggest that a component of the detoxification mechanism also involves the release of copper and GSH to the extracellular medium. Highlights • Intracellular copper linearly correlates with levels in the culture medium. • Increases in GSH were observed from day 1, mainly at 2.5 and 5 μM copper. • Increases in PCs were observed from day 1, mainly at 7.5 and 10 μM copper. • GSH and PCs concentrations correlate with accumulated copper. • MTs expression occurred at days 3–12, mainly at 7.5 and 10 μM copper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper (Cu) is an essential element required by all living organisms, since at least 30 enzymes are known to use Cu as a cofactor. Cu is also toxic in excess and liver and gills are known to be target organs for it. In the present study, 240 Siberian sturgeon juvenile (with initial weight 29.2 ± 3.1 g and initial length 21.8 ± 1.4 cm) were randomly distributed in 12 fiberglass tanks at 4 different copper nanoparticle (Cu-NPs) treatments with 3 replicates. Treatments included control (T0 = no added Cu-NPs), 50 (T50), 100 (T100), 200 (T200) µg.l -1 Cu-NPs (mean primary particle size of 2 - 6 nm) in a semi-static waterborne exposure regime. Water exchanged were 20% daily with redosing after each change. The experimental period lasted 28 days, 14 days exposure to Cu-NPs and 14 days as recovery time. Fish liver, gill, intestine and muscle were sampled at days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Samples were weighed, dried (100 ◦C for 48 h) then digested in concentrated nitric acid in a water bath, cooled, and analyzed for Cu concentration in the tissues with graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscope. Most of the Cu-NPs were accumulated in the intestine, gill, liver and muscle. The accumulation of NPs in tissues was increased in all treatments from day 7 through 14. In the recovery period, Cu-NPs in tissues decreased but it was still higher than the control treatment. The current findings indicate that preventing the entry of Cu-NPs into the aquatic environment would seem to be essential.

This work examined the capability of Imperata cylindrica to respond, tolerate and accumulate Cu when growing at high Cu concentration (300 mg kg−1 of substrate) at different times of exposure (2, 14 and 21 days). The Cu accumulation in plants was examined by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and Cu localized by Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy. Additionally, the phenolic compound identifications and concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Our results showed that root biomass decreased significantly at high Cu levels, with a greater decrease at 21 days (39.8% less biomass in comparison to control). The root showed 328 mg Cu kg−1 dry weight at 21 days of exposure to Cu, being the tissue that accumulates most of the Cu. Lipid peroxidation was a clear indicator of Cu stress, principally in shoots. The exposure to Cu significantly increased the synthesis of phenolic compounds in shoots of plants exposed 21 days to Cu, where 5-caffeoylquinic acid reached the highest concentrations. Our results support that I. cylindrica is a Cu accumulator plant in root organs with a medium level of accumulation (between 200–600 mg Cu kg−1 biomass), which can tolerate the exposure to high Cu levels by means of increasing the synthesis of phenolic compound in shoots, suggesting a potential use as phytoremediation tool in Cu polluted environments.

Background Wilson's disease (WD) is a copper metabolism disorder that causes hepatolenticular degeneration. It is important to diagnose WD before central nervous system involvement. Purpose To demonstrate the early susceptibility changes associated with the copper accumulation in the brain of neurologically asymptomatic pediatric patients with WD using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). Material and Methods Twelve patients with neurologically asymptomatic WD (mean age = 13.7 ± 3.3 years) and 14 age-matched controls were prospectively examined using a 1.5-T clinical scanner. Routine magnetic resonance (MR) sequences and a three-dimensional multi-echo spoiled gradient echo (GRE) sequence were used and QSM maps were reproduced. The quantitative susceptibility of corpus striatum, thalamus, substantia nigra, and pons were analyzed with the region of interest analysis on QSM maps. The susceptibility values of two groups were statistically compared using a two-sample t-test. Results Conventional MR images of the patients and control group were similar. However increased magnetic susceptibility in the thalamus, pons and left posterior putamen were observed in the patients compared to the control group ( p < 0.05). Conclusion We observed statistically increased susceptibility values in the brains of neurologically asymptomatic patients with WD although the conventional MR images were normal. This might be compatible with early brain impairment, before neurological symptoms occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eclipta alba L. is a well known medicinal herb, found commonly on contaminated roadsides in Kerala, India. To assess its potential for copper tolerance and accumulation, pot culture experiment was carried out. Metal accumulation in the plant in relation to 50-800 mg kg Cu in soils, administered as CuSO·7HO in solution, was examined. Biomass yield of shoot and root, pigment content, Cu accumulation in the plant, bio-concentration factor, and translocation factor were the parameters studied. At the highest level of treatment, Cu was found accumulated more in the roots than in shoots. A significant increase in lipid peroxidation, proline content, phenolics and flavanoids were observed in Cu treated plants, compared to the control. The activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase was found significantly changed in all the treated plants than in the control. The Bradford assay revealed a significant increase in protein content of the plant at higher levels of Cu treatment. Transmission electron microscopy, images supported the uptake and sequestration of metal particles inside the plant cell. The overall data suggests Eclipta alba L. to be a plant with high potential to tolerate Cu toxicity in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies of intensively reared cattle in NW Spain have reported significantly higher copper (Cu) accumulation in the liver in Holstein-Friesian (HF) animals than in Galician Blonde (GB) or GBxHF crosses when receiving a diet supplemented at the maximum Cu concentrations allowed in the EU legislation (35 mg/kg). The present study aimed to evaluate whether this difference is due to the pattern of subcellular accumulation of Cu in the liver. For this purpose, liver samples from 10 GB, 9 HF and 10 GBxHF young bulls were analysed to determine the content of metallothionein (MT) and Cu and zinc (Zn) (in the liver (Cu-liver and Zn-liver) and bound to metallothionein (Cu-MT and Zn-MT)). The Cu distribution within the main subcellular compartments (nuclei, large granule, microsomes and cytosol) was also determined. Even though HF animals showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) Cu concentrations in the liver (161 ± 10 mg/kg wet weight) compared with GB (132 ± 8 mg/kg), no breed-related differences were observed for any of the parameters considered in this study. Overall, the pattern of hepatic subcellular accumulation was similar to that previously described in cattle: (i) MT concentrations were lower than in other animal species but strongly related to hepatic Zn; (ii) a low proportion of Cu (6.61%) was bound to MT but this was strongly and negatively related to the Cu:Zn ratio in the liver cell; and (iii) the highest proportion of Cu (57.3%) was found in the large granule (lysosome containing) fraction. All these results indicate a low capacity of cattle to excrete Cu by the bile resulting in a high Cu accumulation in the liver cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species in the fungal genus Trichoderma have been reported to modulate tolerance to heavy metal stress in plants. However, the mechanism for enhanced plant tolerance to copper (Cu) by Trichoderma spp., has received little attention. To evaluate the potential of the fungus Trichoderma asperellum (To strain) to reduce the adverse effects of Cu on plant growth, uninoculated and T. asperellum -inoculated onion plants were exposed to different concentrations of Cu (0, 50–250 μM CuSO 4 ). Exposure to the higher concentrations of Cu (100, 250 μM CuSO 4 ) reduced plant survival significantly. In contrast, the lower Cu concentration (50 μM CuSO 4 ) had no effect on plant survival, but dry biomass of bulbs and leaves, and the chlorophyll content were reduced and the Cu toxicity increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content; the highest MDA content was found in leaves followed by roots and bulbs. In response to this, proline content increased in leaves and bulbs. Using the bio-concentration factor (BCF) and the translocation factor (Tf), it was possible to show that Cu was accumulated in roots and bulbs as a tolerance mechanism to reduce Cu translocation into leaves. Excess Cu (100 and 250 μM CuSO 4 ) was toxic to T. asperellum in vitro , but at the lower Cu concentration (50 μM CuSO 4 ) mycelial growth of T. asperellum was not affected significantly. When onion plants were inoculated with T. asperellum prior to Cu exposure (50 μM CuSO 4 ), Cu accumulation and translocation in tissues was reduced and Cu toxicity was ameliorated due the increased growth and chlorophyll content, and the reduction in MDA content compared with uninoculated plants receiving the same Cu concentration. The results indicate that T. asperellum mediates tolerance to Cu stress in onion plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) are among the most widely used metal oxide nanoparticles, which increases the chance of their being released into the marine environment. As the applications of these particles have increased in recent years, their potential impact on the health of marine biota has also increased. However, the toxicological effects of these NPs in the marine environment are poorly known. In the present study, the DNA damaging potential of CuO-NPs in the marine eastern mussel Mytilus trossulus was evaluated and compared to that of dissolved copper exposures. Genotoxicity was assessed by the single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay in mussel gill and digestive gland cells. The results showed that copper in both forms (CuO-NPs and dissolved copper) was accumulated to different extents in mussel tissues. The mussel exposed to the dissolved copper attained higher concentrations of copper in the gills than in the digestive gland. In contrast to these results, it was found that CuO-NPs could induce much higher copper accumulation in the digestive gland than in the gills. A clear and statistically significant increase in DNA damage was found in both tissues of the Cu-exposed group compared to the control mussels. Our results indicated that the CuO-NP exposure produced remarkable effects and increased DNA damage significantly in mussel gill cells only. It should be noted that the digestive gland cells were prone to accumulation following CuO-NPs when compared to the gill cells, while the gill cells were more sensitive to the genotoxic effects of CuO-NPs. These results also suggested the need for a complete risk assessment of engineered particles before its arrival in the consumer market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess the effects of dietary copper source and level on hematological parameters, copper accumulation and transport, resistance to low temperature, antioxidant capacity and immune response of white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei Boone, 1931). Seven experimental diets with different copper sources and levels were formulated: C, no copper supplementation; S, 30 mg/kg copper in the form of CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O; SO, 15 mg/kg copper in CuSO 4 ·5H 2 O + 7.5 mg/kg copper in Cu-proteinate; O1, O2, O3 and O4, 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg/kg copper in the form of Cu-proteinate, respectively. A total of 840 shrimp (5.30 ± 0.04 g) were randomly distributed to 21 tanks (3 tanks/diet, 40 shrimp/tank). An 8-week feeding trial was conducted. The results showed that there was no significant difference in growth performance and whole shrimp chemical compositions among all groups. Compared with inorganic copper, dietary organic copper (O2 and O3) increased total protein, albumin, and glucose content of plasma, while decreased triglyceride and total cholesterol of plasma. Copper concentration in plasma and muscle and gene expression of metallothionein and copper-transporting ATPase 2 like in hepatopancreas were higher in shrimp fed organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4). The lowest mortality after low temperature (10 °C) challenge test was observed in the O2 and O3 groups. Organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4) significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity (in terms of higher activities of total superoxide dismutase, copper zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant capacity, lower malondialdehyde concentration of plasma, and up-regulated gene expression of superoxide dismutase, copper zinc superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase of hepatopancreas). Organic copper (SO, O2, O3 and O4) enhanced the immune response (in terms of higher number of total hemocytes, higher activities of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, phenoloxidase, hemocyanin and lysozyme in plasma, and higher gene expressions of alkaline phosphatase, lysozyme and hemocyanin in hepatopancreas). Inorganic copper (Diet S) also had positive effects on white shrimp compared with the C diet, but the SO, O2, O3 and O4 diets resulted in better results, among which the O2 diet appeared to be the best one. In conclusion, organic copper was more beneficial to shrimp health than copper sulfate. • Organic Cu can improve copper accumulation and transport of white shrimp. • Organic Cu can enhance the low temperature tolerance and physiological health of white shrimp. • Organic Cu has better benefits at 20 mg/kg compared with inorganic Cu at 30 mg/kg. • High level of organic Cu (40 mg/kg) has no toxic effects to white shrimp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]