Disorders in the transport of copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium and zinc

Abstract

Metals, as well as selenium, are indispensable elements in cell biology. They function as cofactors for many specific proteins and are involved in all major metabolic pathways. The number of recognised IEM involving the absorption, transport, or metabolism of these elements is rapidly growing. Clinical presentations can involve all organs and systems including the liver and the central nervous system. Deficiency of metals results mostly in loss of function of metal-dependent proteins while excess can result in unregulated oxidation of proteins, lipids and other cellular components. Treatments rely on daily supplementation of the deficient metal at pharmacological doses and on chelating drugs where there is excess.