Copper D-gluconate
[CAS# 13005-35-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Water, electrolyte and acid-base balance regulator >> Glucose drug
• Name: Copper D-gluconate
• Synonyms: Copper 2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanoate
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₂CuO₁₄
• Molecular Weight: 453.84
• CAS Registry Number: 13005-35-1
• EC Number: 235-844-0
• SMILES: C(C(C(C(C(C(=O)[O-])O)O)O)O)O.C(C(C(C(C(C(=O)[O-])O)O)O)O)O.[Cu+2]

Discovory and Applicatios

Copper D-gluconate is an organic copper(II) salt of D-gluconic acid, typically with the formula Cu(C₆H₁₁O₇)₂. It appears as a blue to blue-green powder, odorless, and readily soluble in water. The complex consists of a central copper(II) ion chelated by gluconate anions through hydroxyl and carboxylate oxygen atoms, forming a stable coordination structure that enhances copper’s bioavailability in aqueous systems.

The compound emerged in the early 20th century during studies on organic copper complexes for nutritional supplementation. D-gluconic acid, a mild sugar acid derived from glucose oxidation, was recognized for its ability to form stable water-soluble salts with transition metals, including copper. Copper D-gluconate became notable in pharmaceutical and food industries as an accessible, palatable copper source for dietary formulations.

Its primary application is as a nutritional supplement to prevent or treat copper deficiency, which can result from inadequate dietary intake, certain genetic disorders (such as Menkes disease), or prolonged parenteral nutrition without trace element fortification. Copper is an essential trace element involved in key enzymatic processes, including cytochrome c oxidase activity in cellular respiration, superoxide dismutase function in antioxidant defense, and lysyl oxidase-mediated crosslinking in collagen and elastin synthesis. In supplement form, copper D-gluconate offers good gastrointestinal absorption and is generally well-tolerated at recommended dosages.

In dermatology and cosmetic formulations, copper D-gluconate is used in topical creams, serums, and shampoos for its potential role in supporting skin repair, stimulating dermal fibroblast activity, and providing antimicrobial protection. It is also used in veterinary medicine, where it can be incorporated into mineral blends for livestock to prevent copper deficiency–related growth and coat disorders.

Beyond supplementation, copper D-gluconate has been explored in biomedical research for its antimicrobial properties. The copper ion’s ability to disrupt microbial membranes and enzyme systems makes the compound suitable for inclusion in oral hygiene products, wound care solutions, and antimicrobial coatings. Its water solubility and low toxicity relative to inorganic copper salts allow broader formulation flexibility.

In the food industry, copper D-gluconate is sometimes used as a fortifying agent in health drinks, infant formulas, and nutraceutical blends. It may also function as a color stabilizer or a minor additive in certain processed products, although its use is regulated by food safety authorities, with specified maximum allowable copper content.

Handling copper D-gluconate requires standard safety measures. Although the compound is less irritating than many inorganic copper salts, excessive ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset and, at very high doses, systemic copper toxicity. Storage should be in airtight containers away from heat, light, and moisture to prevent degradation.

References

2023. Hair care nutritional supplement composition. European Patent Application, EP-4201418-A1.
Priority Date: 2021-12-23
URL: https://patents.google.com/patent/EP4201418A1

2023. Hair care nutritional supplement composition. World Patent Application, WO-2023118518-A1.
Priority Date: 2021-12-23
URL: https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/detail.jsf?docId=WO2023118518

2022. Formulations comprising a mineral and/or a vitamin and a polysaccharide, compositions thereof and use thereof in supplementing said mineral and/or vitamin. European Patent Application, EP-4069194-A1.
Priority Date: 2019-12-04
URL: https://patents.google.com/patent/EP4069194A1