Iron: An essential element for life

Iron is one of the essential elements for life and plays a fundamental role in processes as diverse as oxygen transport, energy production, DNA synthesis, the immune response, and cellular regulation. However, both iron deficiency and iron excess can cause significant physiological disturbances and numerous diseases. This book offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of iron, covering its history, chemical properties, metabolism, homeostasis, biological functions, nutrition, pregnancy, biomarkers, and major associated pathologies. In addition, it analyzes the analytical methods used to measure iron levels, advances in sensors and nanosensors, the applications of nanotechnology, and the prospects for precision medicine. With an interdisciplinary approach that integrates chemistry, biochemistry, medicine, nutrition, hematology, and analytical chemistry, this book serves as a reference work for students, faculty, researchers, and health sciences professionals interested in understanding the extraordinary importance of iron in biology and modern medicine.