Copper toxicity and uptake in microorganisms

Abstract

Copper is a required trace element for growth of microorganisms since it is a cofactor for numerous enzymes. Also, proteins containing copper are important electron transfer carriers. However, at elevated concentrations, copper can be highly toxic to microorganisms. This review examines copper toxicity and uptake in microorganisms, with an emphasis on copper-resistance mechanisms. © 1990 Society for Industrial Microbiology.