Of mice and men: genetic determinants of iron status

Proc Nutr Soc. 2004 Feb;63(1):11-20. doi: 10.1079/PNS2003312.

Abstract

Fe homeostasis is maintained by regulation of Fe absorption to balance largely unregulated body Fe losses. The majority of human subjects maintain relatively constant Fe stores; however, Fe deficiency and Fe overload are common conditions. Fe overload is frequently associated with mutations in genes of Fe metabolism. The present paper summarises present knowledge of these mutations as well as indicating other genes that animal studies have implicated as candidates for influencing body Fe stores.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Hemochromatosis / genetics
  • Hemochromatosis Protein
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / genetics
  • Homeostasis / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Iron / metabolism*
  • Iron Deficiencies
  • Iron Overload / genetics
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics
  • Mice
  • Mutation
  • Nutritional Status / genetics*
  • Receptors, Transferrin / genetics
  • Transferrin

Substances

  • HFE protein, human
  • Hemochromatosis Protein
  • Hfe protein, mouse
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Receptors, Transferrin
  • TFR2 protein, human
  • TFR2 protein, mouse
  • Transferrin
  • Iron