A double-edged sword: iron regulation in alveolar lung epithelial repair.

Abstract

The oxygen-rich milieu of the lungs necessitates precise iron homeostasis and regulation, processes that are fundamental to pulmonary physiology but often receive limited attention. However, in recent years, dysregulation of iron homeostasis has been linked to numerous acute and chronic respiratory diseases. Here, we comprehensively evaluate the mechanisms governing iron homeostasis in the alveolar epithelium of the lung and examine how iron dysregulation contributes to impaired alveolar epithelial repair in respiratory disease. This Review focuses on the effects of iron on alveolar epithelial cell homeostasis and repair and disease pathogenesis. There will be a focus on emerging interventions designed to reestablish iron homeostasis and their potential therapeutic implications related to enhancing lung repair and limiting the progression of lung disease.