From Iron to Depression: The Crosstalk Between the Periphery and Brain.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Metabolism
• Explores the role of iron and iron-sulfur clusters in physiological functions.

Background:

• Iron is vital for human development and function.
• Brain iron dyshomeostasis is linked to neurodegenerative diseases.
• Altered iron metabolism (overload/deficiency) is implicated in depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review novel physiological functions of iron.
• To summarize the crosstalk between central and peripheral iron metabolism.
• To update on depression mechanisms, focusing on brain-periphery interactions and iron's role.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on iron metabolism and depression.
• Focus on interactions between the brain and peripheral factors.
• Analysis of the role of gut microbiota, inflammation, and the HPA axis.

Main Results:

• Iron homeostasis is tightly regulated between the brain and periphery.
• Disturbances in iron metabolism contribute significantly to depression.
• The brain-periphery axis, influenced by factors like gut microbiota and inflammation, is critical.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of iron's role in depressive disorders is established.
• The brain-periphery axis is a key factor in depression.
• Identifies potential therapeutic targets for psychiatric conditions related to iron dysregulation.