Copper is essential for brain health and too much, or too little copper, in the human brain is associated with serious neurodegenerative conditions. We have recently demonstrated that copper levels are reduced in the vulnerable brain regions in Parkinson’s disease. As copper is an essential trace element for the correct function of multiple proteins in the brain that maintain cell health this reduction in copper may play a critical role in neurodegenerative pathways in Parkinson’s disease. In this project we are characterising for the first time how copper is transported into and within the human brain, and if copper transport mechanisms are altered in Parkinson’s disease. We are also investigating the consequences of reduced copper in the Parkinson’s brain for cell function and survival. This work may identify novel approaches to improve treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
