Ferritin's role in infectious diseases: Exploring pathogenic mechanisms and clinical implications

Abstract

Ferritin, an iron storage protein, is crucial for maintaining iron metabolism balance throughout the body and serves as a key biomarker for evaluating the body's iron reserves. Reduced ferritin levels typically indicate iron deficiency, whereas elevated ferritin levels indicate an acute inflammatory response in infectious diseases. Recent research has established a significant link between elevated ferritin levels and disease severity and prognosis. The concept of hyperferritinemic syndrome has underscored ferritin's role as a pathogenic mediator. During infections, ferritin not only serves as a biomarker of inflammation but also exerts pro-inflammatory functions, which is a key factor in perpetuating the vicious pathogenic cycle. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of ferritin, covering its structural characteristics, regulatory mechanisms, and how diverse pathogens modulate ferritin. Understanding its pivotal role in infectious diseases is essential for identifying novel therapeutic prospects and enhancing disease management and prevention.