Iron Metabolism: From Molecular Mechanisms to Clinical Consequences

Iron is indispensable for the growth, development and well-being of almost all living organisms. Biological systems from bacteria, fungi and plants to humans have evolved systems for the uptake, utilisation, storage and homeostasis of iron. Its importance for microbial growth makes its uptake systems a natural target for pathogenic microorganisms and parasites. Uniquely, humans suffer from both iron deficiency and iron overload, while the capacity of iron to generate highly reactive free ra...