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Iron homeostasis and eye disease
Allison Loh1, Majda Hadziahmetovic, Joshua L Dunaief
1F.M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Biochimica Et Biophysica Acta
|December 9, 2008
Summary
Excess iron can harm eye tissues by generating free radicals. Maintaining iron balance is crucial for preventing various eye diseases, including those affecting the cornea, lens, and retina.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Iron is essential for biological functions but toxic in excess.
- Excess iron generates reactive oxygen species via the Fenton reaction, causing tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence linking iron accumulation to various ocular diseases.
- To explore iron's role in the pathology of the cornea, lens, and retina.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical approach to evaluating iron's contribution to eye disease.
- Review of existing scientific literature on iron metabolism and ocular pathology.
Main Results:
- Iron deposition observed in the cornea (normal aging, keratoconus, pterygium).
- Evidence links oxidative damage from iron to cataractogenesis.
- Iron implicated in age-related macular degeneration and potentially optic neuropathies.
Conclusions:
- Iron homeostasis is critical for maintaining ocular health.
- Antioxidants and iron chelators show promise in preventing and treating eye diseases.
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