Copper was first discovered sometime around 8,000 years before the birth of Christ. It was known as cuprum during the Roman times, as it found near the island of Cyprus. The word cuprum is the Roman name for Cyprian metal^I.

Lysyl oxidase plays a critical role in the formation of collagen and elastin crosslinking. Elastin is very similar to collagen, in that it forms highly-crosslinked proteins, except that it is more elastic in nature. Elastin is used in ligaments, skin, blood vessels, and the lungs, where tissues need to stretch and then return to their normal shape. From previous material, you’ll remember that

Lysyl oxidase is also involved in collagen formation that creates bone. Another enzyme important in our discussion is copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD)^IV. CuZnSOD protects our joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles from superoxide free radicals by converting them into hydrogen peroxide. Many forms of arthritis are caused by free radical damage, and many of these free radicals are actually created and released by our own immune systems when attempting to protect our joint tissues from microbial infections after injury.

Copper is also important in the formation of another enzyme, cytochrome c oxidase, which consumes oxygen and is responsible for ATP production, and the energy necessary to repair tissues^V.

Copper deficiency is rare in humans, and when it occurs, it’s usually related to diets high in zinc. Copper and zinc are antagonistic towards one another. Factors that inhibit copper intake include: vitamin C, high levels of zinc, high levels of iron, phosphate excess, uncooked meats, cellulose fiber, and fructose (fruit sugars).