Iron Absorption: Molecular and Pathophysiological Aspects

Abstract

Iron is an essential nutrient for growth among all branches of life, but while iron is among the most common elements, bioavailable iron is a relatively scarce nutrient. Since iron is fundamental for several biological processes, iron deficiency can be deleterious. On the other hand, excess iron may lead to cell and tissue damage. Consequently, iron balance is strictly regulated. As iron excretion is not physiologically controlled, systemic iron homeostasis is maintained at the level of absorption, which is mainly influenced by the amount of iron stores and the level of erythropoietic activity, the major iron consumer. Here, we outline recent advances that increased our understanding of the molecular aspects of iron absorption. Moreover, we examine the impact of these recent insights on dietary strategies for maintaining iron balance.