Progress in role of iron in pathogenesis of preeclampsia

Abstract

Iron plays an important role in maintaining normal physiological functions of oxygen transportation and electron transfer in the body. However, excessive iron intake will induce the generation of oxygen radicals through Fenton reaction and result in free radical chain reactions, causing lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. Oxidative stress is also known as one of the causes of preeclampsia. Therefore, the correlation between iron overload and preeclampsia has attracted more attention. Relevant publications were reviewed to discuss the potential mechanisms of iron overload under oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Key words: Pre-eclampsia; Iron; Oxidative stress