Iron and Cancer.

Iron and Cancer.
Annu Rev Nutr. 2018 Aug 21;38:97-125
Authors: Torti SV, Manz DH, Paul BT, Blanchette-Farra N, Torti FM
Abstract
This review explores the multifaceted role that iron has in cancer biology. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between excess iron and increased cancer incidence and risk, while experimental studies have implicated iron in cancer initiation, tumor growth, and metastasis. The roles of iron in proliferation, metabolism, and metastasis underpin the association of iron with tumor growth and progression. Cancer cells exhibit an iron-seeking phenotype achieved through dysregulation of iron metabolic proteins. These changes are mediated, at least in part, by oncogenes and tumor suppressors. The dependence of cancer cells on iron has implications in a number of cell death pathways, including ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death. Uniquely, both iron excess and iron depletion can be utilized in anticancer therapies. Investigating the efficacy of these therapeutic approaches is an area of active research that promises substantial clinical impact.
PMID: 30130469 [PubMed - in process]

Source: Annual Review of Nutrition - August 21, 2018 Category: Nutrition Authors: Torti SV, Manz DH, Paul BT, Blanchette-Farra N, Torti FM Tags: Annu Rev Nutr Source Type: research