Serum Levels of Zinc and Copper and Cu/Zn Ratio in Algerian Prostate Cancer Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Trace elements play a crucial role in the proper functioning of the body's metabolic processes. Among them, copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are particularly important in maintaining physiological and pathological balance. Their involvement in various health conditions, including prostate cancer, is increasingly recognised. Prostate cancer, the second most common cancer in men worldwide, is also the fifth most common male cancer in Algeria. Understanding the variations in levels of these trace elements in prostate cancer patients could offer important insights into their potential role in the pathology and diagnosis of this disease.

Objectives: In the present study, Serum levels of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) of Algerian patients, diagnosed with prostate cancer. The Cu/ Zn ratio was calculated to explore a possible correlation between these elements and cancer prostate in the study groups.

Methods: In the present study, serum levels of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were measured in 35 patients recently diagnosed with prostate cancer and 40 healthy volunteers using polarography.

Results: Serum Zn level of prostate cancer patients were significantly decreased compared to control groups. The level of serum Cu e were significantly higher in prostate cancer patients than in controls. Consequently, the Cu/Zn ratio was significantly higher in prostate cancer patients that for control groups.

Conclusions: The study conducted on prostate cancer patients in western Algeria provide compelling insights into the correlation between trace elements and cancer progression. Specifically, the results indicate significant alterations in the serum levels of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) among these patients. Elevated levels of copper and reduced levels of zinc were consistently observed, resulting in a markedly increased Cu/Zn ratio when compared to healthy control subjects. The elevated Cu/Zn ratio observed in this study presents a promising avenue for cancer diagnostics. This ratio could serve as a significant biomarker to assess the risk of prostate cancer in the western Algerian population.