Iron, a mineral found in meat, poultry, seafood, legumes and some vegetables and grains, makes up a large part of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. Iron plays several important roles in the immune system.
Immune Function
The body requires sufficient iron for the differentiation and proliferation of T lymphocytes, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. These white blood cells, often referred to as T cells, play an important role in immune function. Iron also plays a role in the generation of hypochlorous acid, a beneficial reactive oxygen species that white blood cells use to kill pathogens.
DNA Synthesis
The body requires ribonucleotide reductase, an iron-dependent enzyme, for proper DNA synthesis, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Through its assistance in DNA synthesis, iron has an indirect role on many important body functions, including immune function, healing, growth and reproduction.
Iron Deficiency
Insufficient intake or absorption of iron can cause iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency can cause decreased immune function and increased susceptibility to infection, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Other symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include weakness, fatigue, sore or inflamed tongue, difficulty concentrating and difficulty maintaining body temperature.
Controversial Issues
In some cases, the relationship between iron deficiency and the vulnerability to infection remains controversial, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Some studies have shown that high supplementary doses of iron in children in the tropics can increase risk of malaria and pneumonia, and other studies have shown that iron therapy may increase the survival of malaria, tuberculosis and other infectious agents in animals. Further research is needed to determine the appropriate role for iron in tropical regions and in people with certain infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, HIV and typhoid, suggests the Linus Pauling Institute.
