Beyond bioavailability: dual-source iron improves absorption and cellular handling.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Nutrition
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Iron deficiency remains a global health concern, necessitating improved oral iron supplementation strategies.
• Current iron supplements often face limitations in absorption and gastrointestinal side effects.
• Dual-source iron formulations offer a novel approach by combining heme and non-heme iron sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mechanisms by which dual-source iron enhances intestinal absorption and cellular handling.
• To investigate the complementary roles of heme and non-heme iron uptake pathways.
• To assess the impact of dual-source iron on intestinal epithelial integrity and systemic iron availability.

Main Methods:

• Utilized schematic representations and mechanistic illustrations of intestinal iron absorption pathways.
• Described the uptake of heme iron via heme carrier protein 1 (HCP1) and non-heme iron via divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1).
• Highlighted intracellular processing including ferritin storage and ferroportin-mediated export.

Main Results:

• Dual-source iron engages complementary intestinal uptake pathways (HCP1 and DMT1).
• Enhanced intracellular processing, including ferritin storage and ferroportin export, improves systemic iron availability.
• Preserved epithelial integrity was observed, potentially due to reduced unabsorbed luminal iron.

Conclusions:

• Dual-source iron formulations provide a mechanistic advantage through combined uptake and efficient cellular handling.
• This approach supports improved systemic iron levels while maintaining intestinal barrier function.
• Dual-source iron represents a promising strategy for enhanced oral iron supplementation.