关键词: 铁, 缺铁, 缺铁性贫血, 大脑发育, 认知, 行为

Abstract:

Iron is an essential mineral to human body. It is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin and myoglobin as well as for the function of many vital iron-dependent enzymes. Many studies have reported that the changes in brain structure，neurotransmitter，neurometabolism with altered gene and protein profiles related to early iron deficiency may result in changes in sensory/motor，cognitive/ language，and social-emotional development. Iron status in early life time should be determined by various factors during prenatal，perinatal and postnatal periods. The physiological needs for iron vary to meet the requirements for growth and development of fetus and infants. Updated research findings imply an iron-dependent time window existing for developing brain，emphasizing the importance of optimal supplementary of iron during different periods in early life time.

Key words: iron, iron deficiency, iron deficiency anemia, brain developing, cognition, behavior