Description
The tetrapeptide DAHK corresponding to the N-terminal sequence of human serum albumin forms a tight binding site for Cu(II) ions. DAHK inhibits Cu(II)-induced oxidative DNA double strand breaks. The tetrapeptide is as effective as HSA in preventing neuronal death induced by CuCl₂/ascorbic acid. DAHK may be an effective, small-molecular-weight alternative to HSA as a therapeutic agent for stroke.
