Influence of plant-derived bioactive compounds on iron metabolism: mechanistic insights with translational relevance

Iron is an essential micronutrient involved in key physiological processes, including oxygen transport and mitochondrial energy production. As humans lack a regulated excretory pathway for excess iron, systemic homeostasis depends on tightly controlled mechanisms of intestinal absorption, cellular storage, and recycling. Dysregulation of these processes may result in iron deficiency or overload, both associated with significant health implications. Plant bioactive compounds, a diverse group of secondary metabolites present in various plant tissues, have gained attention for their modulatory effects on iron metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests that these compounds influence the expression and activity of iron-regulatory proteins such as hepcidin, ferroportin (FPN), ferritin, transferrin, and divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1). Their biological effects are frequently attributed to antioxidant, metal-chelating, and anti-inflammatory properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of selected plant-derived bioactive compounds—curcumin, catechins, quercetin, resveratrol, sulforaphane, tannins, myricetin, apigenin, and oleuropein—and their roles in iron metabolism and homeostasis. Special attention is given to their mechanistic actions and therapeutic potential in the context of iron-related disorders.