Copper nanoclusters, their production processes and their application in the treatment of Menkes disease

Abstract

The present invention relates to copper nanoclusters characterized in that they: - are coated on their surface with a mixed layer comprising histidine (His) and acetate ions (Ac), - have a spherical shape, - have a hydrodynamic diameter ranging from 0.6 to 2.0 nm, and preferably 1.3 nm, - have a metallic core diameter ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 nm, and preferably 1.0 nm, - have a stability over time ranging from 5 to 12 weeks, - exhibit spectrophotometric properties, with a shoulder on the UV-Visible spectrum at 325 ± 10 nm and a fluorescence spectrum with excitation wavelengths ranging from 365 to 395 nm and emission wavelengths ranging from 445 to 475 nm, said copper nanoclusters being designated by the formula " CuNC@HisAc”. The invention also relates to a method for preparing CuNC@HisAc copper nanoclusters.The invention also relates to CuNC@HisAc copper nanoclusters for use in the treatment of pathologies related to copper deficiency, and in particular Menkes disease.