Treatment Details

How it works

Iron is important in biological processes such as oxygen transport, energy production, and the synthesis of nucleic acids such as DNA. Iron is also involved in the body’s antiviral response; in a viral infection, the quickly-replicating viruses compete for iron with the person’s cells. Iron balance also influences the immune response. Low iron levels are associated with altered growth of immune cells, higher levels of pro-inflammatory molecules, and increased oxidative stress. In COVID-19, markers of low iron status can be both risk factors and prognostic indicators. These iron measures include ferritin, a protein used to store iron that stimulates pro-inflammatory compounds; high ferritin levels are linked to COVID-19 severity and mortality.