Copper dyshomeostasis and cardiovascular disease: Molecular mechanisms and new strategies for targeted intervention with cuproptosis (Review)

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide and their pathological mechanisms have remained a major focus of research. Notably, copper has an essential role in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis and disruption of copper metabolism can lead to a range of pathological consequences. The present review summarizes the dynamic balance of copper metabolism, clarifies its regulatory network encompassing intestinal absorption, intracellular transport, tissue storage and excretion, and emphasizes the molecular associations between copper dyshomeostasis and CVDs, including atherosclerosis and stroke. Notably, cuproptosis, a newly identified mode of regulated cell death, provides novel insights into the role of copper‑induced cell death in the cardiovascular system. Based on current research progress, the current review also discusses the value of therapeutics that target copper metabolism, such as copper chelators, ionophores and dietary interventions. Furthermore, key unanswered questions are identified, particularly those regarding the specific molecular pathways linking copper homeostasis to cardiovascular function.