Inflammatory immunity and bacteriological perspectives: A new direction for copper treatment of sepsis

Copper is an essential trace element for all aerobic organisms because of its unique biological functions. In recent years, researchers have discovered that copper can induce cell death through various regulatory mechanisms, thereby inducing inflammation. Efforts have also been made to alter the chemical structure of copper to achieve either anticancer or anti-inflammatory effects. The copper ion can exhibit bactericidal effects by interfering with the integrity of the cell membrane and promoting oxidative stress. Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response caused by infection. Some studies have revealed that copper is involved in the pathophysiological process of sepsis and is closely related to its prognosis. During the infection of sepsis, the body may enhance the antimicrobial effect by increasing the release of copper. However, to avoid copper poisoning, all organisms have evolved copper resistance genes. Therefore, further analysis of the complex relationship between copper and bacteria may provide new ideas and research directions for the treatment of sepsis.