The Research Progress: Cuproptosis and Copper Metabolism in Regulating Cardiovascular Diseases

J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2025 Feb 1;85(2):89-96. doi: 10.1097/FJC.0000000000001653.

Abstract

Studies have shown an association between cardiovascular disease and abnormal copper metabolism. Cuproptosis is caused by the accumulation of copper in vivo, and is a newly identified form of cell death. It regulates cardiovascular diseases by affecting vascular endothelial function and myocardial energy metabolism through pathways such as oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and gene expression. The treatment of copper accumulation in Traditional Chinese Medicine primarily involves heat-clearing and detoxification therapy, supplemented with diuretic therapy. In contrast, Western medicine mainly uses copper chelators. Flavonoids are common active ingredients used in the treatment of copper metabolism-related and cardiovascular diseases. In this article, we reviewed the relationship between copper metabolism, cuproptosis, and cardiovascular disease, providing novel strategies for preventing and treating cardiovascular disease; our ultimate aim is to encourage inspiration and contemplation among readers.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / metabolism
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / pathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / physiopathology
  • Chelating Agents / therapeutic use
  • Copper* / metabolism
  • Energy Metabolism / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Myocardium* / metabolism
  • Myocardium* / pathology
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Copper
  • Chelating Agents