The primary site for absorption of dietary iron is the duodenum. Ferrous iron (Fe2+) is taken up from the gut lumen across the apical membranes of enterocytes and released into the portal vein circulation across basolateral membranes.<br>The human gene SLC11A2 encodes the divalent cation transporter DCT1 (NRAMP2, Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 2). NRAMP2 resides on the apical membrane of enterocytes and mediates the uptake of ferrous iron into these cells (Tandy S et al, 2000). DCT1 can also accept a broad range of transition metal ions.