Measurements of serum complement components C3 is useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of immune complex disease e.g. SLE (Systemic lupus erythematosus) and some blood associated infectious diseases. Complement concentrations are acute phase proteins and may be normal, despite complement consumption, in some inflammatory and infective disorders. C3 alone is often decreased in infectious disease (septicaemia, endocarditis).

Measurement of serum complement is useful in the monitoring of specific immune complex diseases e.g SLE and infectious diseases post streptococcal disease, subacute bacterial endocarditis.

C3 is the most abundant protein of the complement system. C3 can be cleaved in two divalent fragments, where C3b is the larger fragment. C3a is the smaller fragment that is released into the surrounding fluids. C3a can bind to receptors on basophils and mast cells triggering them to release their vasoactive amines (e.g. histamine). Because of the role of these biomarkers in anaphylaxis, C3a is called an anaphylatoxin. C3a is one of the most potent constrictors of smooth muscle cells. C3a has been shown to be a multifunctional pro-inflammatory mediator.

Complement component 4 (C4) is a blood protein that plays an important role in your immune system. It’s part of the complement pathway—a defense system made up of several proteins that work together to help your body fight infections and clear away damaged or dead cells. A Complement C4 test measures how much of this protein is in your blood to help evaluate immune function and identify possible immune system disorders.

Complement C4a levels can be elevated in conditions associated with inflammation, such as autoimmune diseases, infections, and some neurological disorders. It can also be used in the evaluation of certain pregnancy-related conditions.

Complement Component C1Q is a vital element in the field of immunology and diagnostic medicine, playing a crucial role in the assessment of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. This component forms part of the complement system, a group of proteins that enhance (complement) the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from an organism. C1Q specifically initiates the classical complement pathway, a critical part of the body's innate immune response. Testing for Complement Component C1Q levels is particularly significant in diagnosing conditions such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and other rheumatic diseases.

A total complement measurement, also known as a total hemolytic complement or a CH50 measurement, checks how well the complement system is functioning.

Complement was discovered by Jules Bordet as a heat-labile component of normal plasma that causes the opsonisation and killing of bacteria. The complement system refers to a series of >20 proteins, circulating in the blood and tissue fluids. Most of the proteins are normally inactive, but in response to the recognition of molecular components of microorganisms they become sequentially activated in an enzyme cascade – the activation of one protein enzymatically cleaves and activates the next protein in the cascade.

A total complement measurement, also known as a total hemolytic complement or a CH50 measurement, checks how well the complement system is functioning.

Complement was discovered by Jules Bordet as a heat-labile component of normal plasma that causes the opsonisation and killing of bacteria. The complement system refers to a series of >20 proteins, circulating in the blood and tissue fluids. Most of the proteins are normally inactive, but in response to the recognition of molecular components of microorganisms they become sequentially activated in an enzyme cascade – the activation of one protein enzymatically cleaves and activates the next protein in the cascade.

Stool normally contains about 75% water and ideally should be formed and soft. Stool consistency can vary based upon transit time and water absorption.

The copeptin test is a helpful tool used by doctors to check on a specific part of our body's hormone system. Copeptin is a piece of a larger hormone called pre-provasopressin, which breaks down into three parts, including vasopressin. Vasopressin is important because it helps control how much water our bodies keep and how much we pee out. It's hard to measure vasopressin directly because it doesn't last long in our blood and is present in tiny amounts. That's where copeptin comes in – it's easier to measure and tells us how much vasopressin our body is making.

Like most trace minerals, copper acts as an enzyme cofactor in several key metabolic processes in the body. Among its many functions, copper aids in the formation of bone, hemoglobin and red blood cells, therefore enabling the efficient transport of oxygen throughout the body. In addition, copper works in balance with vitamin C and zinc to manufacture elastin (skin protein) as well as collagen and other structural proteins in cartilage and tendons. It is also involved in the healing process, energy production, hair and skin coloring (production of melanin) and taste sensitivity. Copper stimulates the absorption of iron through the copper transport protein ceruloplasmin. Copper also aids in the metabolism of several fatty acids and helps prevent oxidative damage by serving as a cofactor to superoxide dismutase. In addition, copper is needed for proper insulation (mylination) of nerve cells and serves as a cofactor for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine.

Fecal copper (Cu) provides an estimate of very recent exposure to Cu, and to some extent biliary Cu excretion. The biliary / fecal route is the main route of excretion for Cu from the body.

Copper, a trace element, is a crucial component on a Toxic and Essential Elements panel when assessed in whole blood. It plays a vital role in numerous physiological processes, acting as a key cofactor in various enzymatic reactions. Copper is integral in the formation of red blood cells, the maintenance of healthy nerves and bones, and the absorption and utilization of iron. It also contributes to the synthesis of ATP, the body's primary energy currency, and is involved in the formation of connective tissue and the functioning of the immune system.

Sources:

Legumes, mushrooms, chocolate, nuts and seeds, shellfish and liver are high in copper all greater than 2.4 µg per gram.

Food, water and air (via combustion and fossil fuels and agriculture) are sources of copper.

Copper pipes and fixtures in household plumbing may allow copper to leak into water.