Copper-Dependent α-Amidation in the Synthesis of Neuroendocrine Peptide Hormones

The absolute requirement for copper by many enzymes and biological processes has been well established. The low activity in vitro of many copper-requiring enzymes has been shown to be responsible for symptoms associated with copper deficiency. Among these are altered mental status due to changes in norepinephrine levels (dopamine β-hydroxylase)1, loss of hair pigmentation (tyrosinase)2, and reduced bone and artery competence (lysyl oxidase)3. In addition, the symptoms of copper deficiency include other manifestations of neurological dysfunction.4