Iron induces oxidative stress and may alter the rate of aging in the housefly, Musca domestica.

Iron is known to play a catalytic role in the generation of oxygen free radicals in vitro. The present study was conducted in order to determine the in vivo effects of iron intake. Administration of 2 mM ferrous chloride to adult male houseflies in their drinking water significantly shortened their life span, increased the concentration of inorganic peroxides and chloroform-soluble fluorescent material, and stimulated the activity of catalase. Levels of superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione and oxygen utilization were unaffected. Overall, these results indicate that iron causes oxidative stress in vivo and may influence the rate of aging.