Clinical Biochemistry of Iron Metabolism and Haemoglobin Disorders

A comprehensive review of the molecular biochemistry of iron acquisition, storage, and systemic regulation is provided, covering the roles of hepcidin, ferroportin, and transferrin receptor in iron homeostasis. The chapter addresses the biochemical mechanisms of haemoglobinopathies including sickle cell disease and the thalassaemias, reviews advances in diagnostic biochemistry for iron-related disorders, and discusses the rationale for novel iron chelation and gene-based therapeutic approaches.