Altered nucleotide content and changes in mitochondrial energy states associated with copper deficiency in rat platelets

Ultrastructural changes in the intestine of rats fed high-zinc diets

“…The predicted effect would be a shift in the mitochondrial population from the orthodox configuration to a more condensed configuration, with the impediment of the electron transport system. This type of mitochondrial change was demonstrated in platelets from copper-deficient rats, and it was associated with depressed CCO activity [17]. Such an effect was not seen in these intestinal tissues, however.…”

Cardiovascular effects of dietary copper deficiency

“…Examination of intracellular molecular biology and metabolism of platelets has shown that their cytoskeletal organization and thrombin-mediated dense granule secretion are altered [93,94], calcium mobilization is altered [95] and mitochondrial respiratory function is impaired [96] by dietary copper deficiency. Examination of intracellular molecular biology and metabolism of platelets has shown that their cytoskeletal organization and thrombin-mediated dense granule secretion are altered [93,94], calcium mobilization is altered [95] and mitochondrial respiratory function is impaired [96] by dietary copper deficiency.…”

“…As indicated by the foregoing evidence, some aspects of impaired coagulation in copper deficiency can be attributed to altered platelet function. Examination of intracellular molecular biology and metabolism of platelets has shown that their cytoskeletal organization and thrombin-mediated dense granule secretion are altered [93,94], calcium mobilization is altered [95] and mitochondrial respiratory function is impaired [96] by dietary copper deficiency. How these alterations manifest themselves as specific changes in the various phases of coagulation and fibrinolysis remains to be determined.…”

Trace Elements and Cardiovascular Disease

“…Copper deficiency in rats results in lower platelet adhesion to endothelial cells but greater platelet aggregability [93], possibly by increased thromboxane production [94]. Altered nucleotide content and changes in mitochondrial energy states may also explain altered platelet function in copper deficiency [95]. In any event, platelets, the blood vessel wall, haematocrit and plasma coagulation factors are all known to be affected by copper deficiency and may contribute to the diverse and sometimes opposing actions of copper deficiency on thrombotic tendencies [96].…”