Blood Copper Levels Higher in Alzheimer's Disease
(NY, Reuters-Health, 10/28/02)

Dr. Rosanna Squitti from AfaR-Ospedale Fate Benefratelli in Rome and colleagues assessed mental function, memory and blood levels of specific compounds in 2 groups of seniors: 79 who had Alzheimer's and 76 who were healthy. The researchers also tested volunteers for the Apo e4 gene, which is associated with a decreased antioxidant capacity. The scientists found that the Alzheimer patients had (1) 4-times the probability of having the Apo e4 gene and (2) 54% higher copper levels. The results not only confirm the association between increased copper levels and Alzheimer's, but also suggest that the excess copper may contribute to cell death due to oxidative damage, especially when uninhibited by antioxidants.