Copper's role in pressure ulcer management is primarily to

• A. Rebuild collagen tissues
• B. Rebuild elastin
• C. Stimulate keratinocyte proliferation
• D. Inhibit inflammation

Answer: (A)

Copper’s main contribution to pressure ulcer healing is enabling collagen remodeling. It acts as a crucial cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme that cross-links collagen, giving the new tissue its tensile strength. Without proper cross-linking, collagen fibers can’t form a sturdy, resilient matrix, which is essential for the repaired skin to withstand pressure and resist breakdown. While cross-linking of elastin occurs as well, the structural backbone most critical for wound strength in skin healing is collagen, so copper’s direct impact is best described as rebuilding collagen tissues. Keratinocyte proliferation and inflammation involve other pathways and signals, so they are not the primary role of copper in this context.