High Molecular Weight Alkaline Phosphatase Changes Following Animal Copper Treatment

Although trace amounts of copper (Cu) are necessary to maintain proper body functions, the excess amount can contribute to the development of hepatic dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between copper treatment and changes in the serum concentration of high molecular weight alkaline phosphatase (HMW-ALP). Male Wistar rats were injected intraperitoneally (IP) with copper (Cu) as copper chloride (CuCl2. 4H2O) 4, 2 and 1 mg/kg for 10, 30 and 60 days respectively. Animals were killed at indicated time and blood samples were collected, and sera was separated and used for alkaline phosphatase activity determinations and also for isoenzymes gel filtration chromatography and Sephacryl S-300 was used. Obtained data showed that with increasing administration of copper, the ALP activity was elevated significantly. In comparison with the control group the elevations were between 20%-56% using gel filtration chromatography. It was found that the elevation of serum ALP was mostly due to HMW-ALP. The elevation of HMW-ALP activity in Cu treated animal suggests the occurrence of biliary disease. This may be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of copper toxicity.