Copper content in ascitic fluid is associated with angiogenesis and progression in ovarian cancer

•Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, and Mo levels increased in ascites of ovarian tumors.•Malignant ovarian tumors were independently associated with elevated Cu content.•Cu induced angiogenesis of serous and endometrioid carcinomas and peritoneal cells.•VEGF and tumor stage correlated with Cu levels in ascitic fluid of ovarian cancer.