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Iron and the immune system
1Immunology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
Nature Reviews. Immunology
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Iron is essential for cellular metabolism, leading to competition between hosts and pathogens. Understanding iron
Area of Science:
- Immunology and Metabolism
Background:
- Iron is a vital cofactor for numerous enzymes and cellular processes.
- Host-pathogen interactions are significantly influenced by iron availability and acquisition.
- Iron metabolism is closely linked to immune system function and regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of iron acquisition and utilization by immune cells.
- To explore the impact of iron on different branches of the immune system.
- To discuss the role of iron in infectious diseases, autoinflammatory disorders, and anti-tumor immunity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on iron metabolism and immunity.
- Analysis of the interplay between iron homeostasis and immune responses.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on iron's role in health and disease.
Main Results:
- Immune cells actively acquire and utilize iron for their functions.
- Iron availability profoundly affects immune cell activity and systemic immunity.
- Dysregulation of iron metabolism contributes to various immune-related pathologies.
Conclusions:
- Iron trafficking is a critical determinant of immune system function.
- Manipulating iron metabolism offers potential therapeutic strategies for immune disorders.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex relationship between iron and immunity.
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