Trivalent iron and aluminum ions (Fe3+ / Al3+)

Trivalent iron (Fe3+) and aluminum (Al3+) are metal ions that serve as the primary pharmacological targets for chelation therapy. Iron is an essential component of many iron-dependent enzymes, such as cytochromes, catalases, and peroxidases, which are vital for cellular respiration and antioxidant defense (Source: StatPearls, Iron Toxicity, 2023). However, excess trivalent iron is toxic as it promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species via the Fenton reaction, leading to lipid peroxidation and organ damage (Source: NIH, Hemochromatosis, 2022). Aluminum is a non-physiological metal that can interfere with iron metabolism and accumulate in tissues, leading to dialysis-related encephalopathy and osteomalacia (Source: PubChem, Deferoxamine, CID 2973). Chelating agents like deferoxamine bind these trivalent cations with high affinity to form stable, water-soluble complexes that are subsequently excreted by the kidneys or in the feces (Source: DrugBank, Deferoxamine, DB00746). This therapeutic approach is clinically utilized to treat chronic iron overload in conditions like thalassemia and to manage acute or chronic aluminum toxicity.

Other names

Ferric ironAluminum(III)Fe(III)Al(III)Iron(III)Iron-dependent enzymes (indirect target)

Chelation of trivalent metal ions to form stable, water-soluble complexes that are excreted through the kidneys or bile, thereby reducing systemic metal burden and preventing oxidative damage.