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Iron (ferric ion)

Molecular classification: Inorganic ion, Cofactor

Overview

Ferric iron (Fe³⁺) is the oxidized form of iron, playing a critical role as a cofactor in various enzymes and biological processes, including oxygen transport via hemoglobin (following reduction to Fe²⁺). It's essential for life but can be toxic in excess. Iron chelation therapy is used to treat iron overload conditions.

Other names: Ferric ionIron(III)Fe³⁺Iron(3+)

Mechanism of action

Iron itself isn't a drug, but it is the target of chelators or is involved in redox reactions.

Biological functions

Cofactor in enzymesOxygen transport/storage (indirectly, after reduction)Electron transfer

Disease associations

Iron deficiency anemiaHemochromatosis (iron overload)Neurodegenerative diseases (implicated in oxidative stress)Infection (bacterial siderophore use)Cancer (proliferation)

Safety considerations

Iron overload (hemochromatosis)Toxicity in excessDrug interactions with iron chelatorsPro-oxidant activity (Fenton reaction)

Interacting drugs

Iron chelators (e.g., deferoxamine, deferasirox)

2 more in the full profile.

Biomarkers

Serum ferritin (iron storage)Transferrin saturation (iron transport)Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)Hemoglobin

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