Additionally, by these same ionic properties of electron transfer, iron plays a crucial role as a cofactor for enzymes involved in oxidation-reduction reactions, such as those involved in synthesizing amino acids, neurotransmitters, collagen, and hormones. Several heme-containing molecules also called cytochromes, are directly involved in electron transport for ATP production by reducing iron in the heme from its ferric form (Fe3+) to its ferrous form (Fe2+) and vice versa. Iron is also involved in energy production through its role in the electron transport chain (ETC). Of this amount, 65% is incorporated into the hemoglobin molecule in red blood cells, which serves a vital role in carrying oxygen from the lungs to tissue cells. The average iron content in a 70 kg male is about 3 grams. Recycling the iron from senescent erythrocytes meets most of the body's iron needs by macrophages only 5 to 10% of iron requirements come from food. Although the human body can recycle and reutilize this mineral, it loses some iron daily these lost pools need replacement.
Food is the only natural source of iron, and the mineral is ingestable in supplement form. The body cannot synthesize iron and must acquire it. Iron has an essential physiologic role, as it is involved in oxygen transportation and energy formation.
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