Iron is a mineral that helps to produce red blood cells and transport oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting 1.5 to 2 billion individuals with IDA (iron deficiency anemia), the most common type of anemia. As of 2023, 7% of the Canadian population has IDA. Females of reproductive age were most at risk, at 21.3%.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxygen-based molecules produced during metabolism. The body uses enzymatic and non-enzymatic defenses to neutralize ROS and prevent cellular damage. However, under low-oxygen (hypoxic) conditions, oxidant levels rise, and antioxidant defenses weaken, leading to oxidative stress. This stress is believed to contribute to the development of iron deficient anemia.
Red blood cells combat oxidative stress using enzymes like catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase. In IDA, oxidative stress markers (e.g., malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, total peroxide, and oxidative stress index) increase, while antioxidant levels (e.g., total antioxidant capacity, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and vitamins C and E) decrease.
How the study was done:
Fifty-five patients with IDA and 50 healthy controls were enrolled. Diagnosis of IDA was made based on the cut-off values of low hemoglobin as per age, serum iron <30 μg/dL, ferritin <12 ng/mL, and transferrin saturation<16 %. Serum levels of MDA, protein carbonyl, glutathione reductase, catalase, SOD, and vitamin C were estimated.
Final statement:
Significant oxidative stress and depleted antioxidant defense mechanisms exist in children with IDA. The alterations were found even in mild degrees of anemia. The serum levels of oxidants and antioxidants showed a significant relationship with different hematological parameters, especially with iron and ferritin.
Summary:
Oxidative stress can induce iron deficiency.
Yadav, Kusumlata & Mishra, Om & Khandhadiya, Ketki & Mishra, Surendra & Mishra, Arpita & Singh, Ashok & Agrawal, Ritesh & Sanghvi, Nirali & Mishra, Akash. (2024). Markers of oxidative stress in children with iron deficiency anemia. Pediatric Hematology Oncology Journal. 9. 10.1016/j.phoj.2023.12.009.
