Brain Iron in Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Iron plays an essential role in neurodevelopment and the physiological functions of the brain by acting as a cofactor for enzymes involved in myelinogenesis, neurotransmitter synthesis, cellular respiration, and antioxidant defense. Iron deficiency hinders neurodevelopment, leading to cognitive, motor, and social performance deficits. Conversely, iron overload contributes to the formation of reactive oxygen species that induce oxidative stress and neuronal dysfunction. Abnormal iron levels also impact neurotransmitter systems by affecting synthesis and receptor activity. Brain iron imbalance has been reported in several neuropsychiatric disorders, highlighting the fundamental implications of this metal in mental health. However, the specific neurobiological and molecular pathways linking iron to neuropsychiatric disorders are only beginning to be elucidated. Understanding these mechanisms can have major clinical implications for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders and the management of side effects associated with iron supplementation or psychiatric medications.This Research Topic aims to collect original and review articles that focus on the role of iron in neuropsychiatric disorders. The goal is to deepen understanding of how disturbances in iron neurobiology are linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, with particular emphasis on developmental neuronal trajectories and the molecular pathways that are altered in these conditions. Importantly, this collection will highlight key research questions and knowledge gaps that require attention to advance both mechanistic insights and therapeutic perspectives.To develop a deeper understanding of iron dysregulation in neuropsychiatric disorders, we welcome in vivo, postmortem, or in vitro studies examining brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or systemic iron status through imaging or immunohistochemical methods. We invite submissions addressing a broad range of neuropsychiatric conditions, including but not limited to:- Anxiety disorders- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)- Depressive disorders- Bipolar spectrum disorders- Psychosis and schizophrenia spectrum disorders- Hemochromatosis and other systemic iron disorders with neuropsychiatric manifestations- Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) Topic editors: Christos Pantelis, Parsa Ravanfar, Sandra Magali Luza, Carlos M Opazo Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/82384/brain-iron-in-neuropsychiatric-disorders