Iron Deficiency Inhibits the Proliferation of Intestinal Stem Cells and Induces Their Differentiation to Enterocytes.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: Iron deficiency impairs intestinal mucosal structure and function, yet its impact on intestinal stem cells (ISCs) remains unclear. This study was therefore designed to examine how iron deficiency affects the proliferation and differentiation of ISCs. Methods: Iron-deficient mouse and enteroid models were established. Expression of key cell markers was analyzed using Western blot, qPCR, and immunofluorescence. Results: Iron deficiency led to structural impairment of the intestinal mucosa, characterized by decreased small intestinal villus height. In iron-deficient mice, expression of ChrA (enteroendocrine cell marker), Lyz (Paneth cell marker), and Muc2 (goblet cell marker) was significantly downregulated across duodenum, jejunum and ileum, whereas Vil1 (ent

SUBMITTER: Xu Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12899418 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature