👉 Iron plays a crucial role in the body's immune response, particularly against infections. When the body detects an infection, especially by pathogens like bacteria, it increases its production of iron-binding proteins, such as ferritin and transferrin, to sequester iron. However, many pathogens, including certain bacteria, can exploit this iron-scavenging mechanism. These microbes produce siderophores—high-affinity iron-chelating compounds—that outcompete host proteins for iron, allowing the bacteria to acquire the essential metal needed for their growth and survival. This iron acquisition by pathogens can lead to a reduction in available iron for the host's immune cells, impairing their function and potentially exacerbating the infection. Understanding this interaction is vital for developing strategies to combat bacterial infections, such as blocking siderophore activity or enhancing host iron sequestration mechanisms.
