Research advances in the relationship between iron deficiency and neurodevelopment in preterm infants

Abstract:

Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common micronutrient deficiency in children. Due to insufficient iron storage at birth and rapid catch-up growth after birth, preterm infants tend to have a high incidence rate of ID. During the critical period of brain development, ID alters iron-dependent neurometabolism, neurochemistry, neuroanatomy, and gene/protein profiles. This affects the central nervous system and causes the change in neurocognitive and behavioral development. Iron supplementation in infancy cannot reverse neurodevelopmental impairment caused by perinatal ID. The influence of ID on neurodevelopment is time-and region-specific, and in the high-risk population, early diagnosis and optimal iron treatment may help with the recovery of brain function and improve quality of life and long-term prognosis in preterm infants.