Iron and Testosterone: Interplay and Clinical Implications

Abstract

Purpose of Review: The purpose of this review is to investigate the crosstalk between testosterone and iron metabolism in men and discuss the clinical implications. Recent Findings: Testosterone directly regulates body iron levels through inhibition of the master regulator of iron metabolism, hepcidin. Summary: There is significant overlap between the side effects of exogenous testosterone administration and iron overload. Testosterone increases dietary iron absorption, providing a direct link between the two. As the body is unable to eliminate excess iron, a negative feedback mechanism allowing iron to inhibit testosterone production to maintain body iron homeostasis is proposed. This review discusses the recent data demonstrating the regulation of body iron stores by testosterone, as well as data suggesting testosterone may be reciprocally regulated by iron. Crosstalk between testosterone and iron has significant implications in testosterone deficiency and therapy. Additionally, the regulation of testosterone by iron may indicate a significant role for iron in the development of the hypogonadotropic hypogonadism of aging and chronic disease.