Heme in the process of bacterial survival and infection

Heme (heam) is a kind of iron porphyrin complexes. It is the most presence of iron in human bodies and also the main source of iron for pathogenic bacteria. Heme causes oxidative damage, cell death and organ failure and promotes inflammation in bacterial infection. This article will review the structure and sources of heme and its role in the process of bacterial growth and infection. Key words: Heme; Bacteria; Growth; Pathogenesis