Work

Sequestration and Scavenging of Iron in Infection

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: The proliferative capability of many invasive pathogens is limited by the bioavailability of iron. Pathogens have thus developed strategies to obtain iron from their host organisms. In turn, host defense strategies have evolved to sequester iron from invasive pathogens. This review explores the mechanisms employed by bacterial pathogens to gain access to host iron sources, the role of iron in bacterial virulence, and iron-related genes required for the establishment or maintenance of infection. Host defenses to limit iron availability for bacterial growth during the acute-phase response and the consequences of iron overload conditions on susceptibility to bacterial infection are also examined. The evidence summarized herein demonstrates the importance of iron bioavailability in influencing the risk of infection and the ability of the host to clear the pathogen.

Source: Infection and Immunity

DOI: 10.1128/iai.00602-13

Authors: Nermi L. Parrow, Robert E. Fleming, Michael F. Minnick

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Saint Louis University, University of Montana

Language: English

Topic: Iron Metabolism and Disorders

Subfield: Hematology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: National Institutes of Health