Introduction to Iron Works... The John Beard Memorial Symposium

The Department of Nutritional Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University hosted a symposium entitled "Iron Works... The John Beard Memorial Symposium" in University Park, PA, on November 2, 2009. This one-day scientific symposium was held in honor of the late John Beard and was organized by Jere Haas, Shannon Kelleher, Terry Etherton, James Connor, and Gordon Jensen. The goal of the symposium was to discuss iron biology from a translational approach, encompassing molecular regulation, functional consequences of iron deficiency on neurophysiology and cognition through international and domestic interventions, and public health policy. Elizabeth Theil reviewed the biochemical regulation of iron homeostasis with a specific emphasis on ferritin, including its potential role as a dietary source of iron. James Connor discussed neuropsychological tests that, when coupled with imaging data, help identify brain regions that accumulate iron, which may be related to cognitive decline in the elderly. Betsy Lozoff shared her thoughts on effects of early iron deficiency on the brain and behavioral outcomes. Laura Murray-Kolb examined the functional consequences of iron deficiency in women of reproductive age. Rebecca Stoltzfus explored current interventions targeted at improving iron status in women and children in low-income countries. The scientific symposium closed with a discussion by Sean Lynch on the importance of understanding the effects of bioavailability on iron nutrition and the importance of integrating strategies to improve iron nutrition with other health measures, economic and social policies addressing poverty, as well as trade and agriculture.