When less is more: novel mechanisms of iron conservation.
Disorders of iron homeostasis are very common, yet the molecular mechanisms of iron regulation remain understudied. Over 20 years have passed since the first characterization of iron-regulatory proteins (IRP) as mediators of cellular iron-deficiency response in mammals through iron acquisition. However, little is known about other mechanisms necessary for adaptation to low-iron states. In this review, we present recent evidence that establishes the existence of a new iron-regulatory pathway aimed at iron conservation and optimization of iron use through suppression of nonessential iron-consuming processes. Moreover, we discuss the possible links between iron homeostasis and energy metabolism uncovered by studies of iron-deficiency response.
Feinberg Cardiovascular Research Institute, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Tarry 14-733, 303 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL, USA.
Marina
M
Bayeva
Hsiang-Chun
HC
Chang
Rongxue
R
Wu
Hossein
H
Ardehali
D000818:Animals; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007501:Iron / Q000378:metabolism*; D000090463:Iron Deficiencies; D035925:Iron-Regulatory Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D051816:Tristetraprolin / Q000378:metabolism
D035925:Iron-Regulatory Proteins; D051816:Tristetraprolin; D007501:Iron
Cth1/2; diabetes; iron deficiency; metabolism; tristetraprolin