A new study suggests that copper, the trace mineral is critical in metabolism of  adipose cells. The study was conducted in the University of California, Berkeley and it studied the link of copper levels with increased or decreased fat metabolism. The study found that copper is not only restricted for its role in nervous transmission but also plays a critical role in  signaling for initiation of fat metabolism.
It was found that an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) that blocks cAMP and thus prevents fat metabolism is blocked by copper resulting in breakdown of adipose test. Copper is one of a relatively small group of metallic elements which are essential to human health. Copper combines with certain proteins which then acts as catalysts and perform several biochemical reactions.
Copper also helps in collagen synthesis and melanin production, thereby increasing skin elasticity and boosting heart functions. Researchers suggest that this breakthrough will help in dealing with lifestyle related diseases like obesity, stroke and diabetes.