Preparation of iron dextran complex and its effect on iron deficiency anemia in rats

Iron dextran complex is commonly used to treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA). In this work, dextran was degraded and oxidized by UV/H₂O₂ treatment, and the product Dex-90 was chelated with FeCl₃ to prepare the iron dextran complex (Dex-90-Fe). Results showed that UV/H₂O₂ treatment could significantly decrease the molecular weight of dextran and increase its carboxyl content, making it easier to chelate with iron (III). Moreover, Dex-90-Fe had a high iron content (30.77 % ± 0.87 %) and good thermal stability, which might be formed by Dex-90 with iron (III) via FeO bond. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of Dex-90-Fe on IDA were investigated in rats. After oral administration, Dex-90-Fe significantly improved hematological parameters, increased serum iron and serum ferritin, facilitated iron accumulation in the liver and spleen, and regulated the gene expressions of iron homeostasis. In summary, the iron dextran complex Dex-90-Fe prepared from UV/H₂O₂-degraded dextran could be developed as an iron supplement.