Abstract

The Role of Iron Metabolism in Lung Inflammation and Injury

Jonghan Kim and Marianne Wessling-Resnick*

Iron is required for many vital functions including oxygen transport and energy metabolism. Protective mechanisms maintain optimal iron concentration involving dynamic regulation of the transporters and iron storage proteins. In addition to these systemic regulatory mechanisms, the unique lung environment must provide detoxification from metal-induced oxidative stress and pathogenic infections. This review focuses on the unique role of iron metabolism in lung injury and inflammation.