Copper in the Human Body: Forms and Functions

There are two forms of copper that exist in the human body:

1. Cuprous Copper (Cu+): This is the reduced form of copper, where it has donated an electron to another molecule. It's involved in various enzymatic reactions, such as the formation of melanin, the production of connective tissues, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

2. Cupric Copper (Cu2+): This is the oxidized form of copper, where it has accepted an electron from another molecule. It's essential for the function of copper-containing enzymes, such as cytochrome c oxidase, which is involved in cellular respiration and energy production.

Both forms of copper play important roles in maintaining various physiological processes in the human body.