Iron Dysregulation and Vascular Diseases: A Contemporary Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science and Metabolism

Background:

• Iron is vital for cardiovascular function, but its dysregulation (deficiency or overload) is linked to cardiovascular disease.
• Imbalances in iron affect vascular cells like endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages, driving inflammation, oxidative stress, and remodeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of iron imbalance in vascular disease pathogenesis, focusing on atherosclerosis and aortic aneurysms.
• To explore cellular and systemic iron homeostasis and its impact on vascular cell biology.
• To discuss mechanisms of iron imbalance-induced vascular pathology and potential therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on iron metabolism and vascular disease.
• Analysis of cellular and systemic iron homeostasis mechanisms.
• Examination of mechanistic insights into iron dysregulation's effects on vascular cells.

Main Results:

• Iron dysregulation contributes to atherosclerosis and aortic aneurysm development.
• Specific vascular cell types are critically affected by iron imbalance, promoting pathological processes.
• Mechanistic links between iron dysregulation and vascular pathology are elucidated.

Conclusions:

• Iron homeostasis is crucial for cardiovascular health; its disruption promotes vascular diseases.
• Targeting iron metabolism presents potential therapeutic avenues for vascular conditions.
• Further research is needed to translate iron-based interventions into clinical practice for vascular disease.