Targeting cuproplasia and cuproptosis in cancer

Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, Published online: 14 March 2024; doi:10.1038/s41571-024-00876-0Copper is an essential trace element with inherent redox properties and fundamental roles in a diverse range of biological processes; therefore, maintaining copper homeostasis is crucial. In this Review, the authors discuss new insights into the mechanisms by which disrupted copper homeostasis contributes to tumour initiation and development, including the recently defined concepts of cuproplasia (copper-dependent cell growth and proliferation) and cuproptosis (a mitochondrial pathway of cell death triggered by excessive copper exposure). They also discuss potential strategies to exploit cuproplasia and cuproptosis for the treatment of cancer.
Source: Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research