Catalysis of linoleate oxidation by copper‐proteins

Abstract

Summary Copper‐proteins formed by the binding of copper ions to conalbumin, serum albumin, or caseinate are more effective catalysts for linoleate oxidation than is copper alone. The main product is conjugated diene linoleate hydroperoxide. Hemocyanin shows similar catalytic activity. The increase in linoleate oxidation catalysis of copper‐proteins compared to ionic copper is ascribed to increased ease of formation and increased stability of the intermediate complex of linoleate peroxide‐copper‐protein.