Ferritin is a noun that refers to a globular protein complex found in many living organisms, including humans. It is widely distributed throughout the body, mainly in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Ferritin plays a crucial role in iron storage and transport within cells.
In terms of structure, ferritin is composed of 24 subunits that form a hollow sphere-like structure, known as the ferritin shell. Inside this shell, iron ions are stored in a soluble and nontoxic form. The soluble iron is bound to the protein that lines the cavity, called apoferritin. Each ferritin complex can hold thousands of iron atoms.
Ferritin acts as a buffer for iron, preventing its toxicity by sequestering it and releasing it as needed. It allows for efficient storage and release of iron, ensuring that iron is available for various physiological processes such as hemoglobin synthesis, enzyme function, and DNA synthesis.
Clinically, ferritin levels are often measured through blood tests to evaluate iron status in the body. Higher levels of ferritin may indicate iron overload, which can be problematic, while lower levels may suggest iron deficiency and associated conditions such as anemia.
In summary, ferritin is a protein complex involved in the storage, transport, and regulation of iron in living organisms. Its structure, which includes a hollow sphere-like shell, allows for efficient iron storage and release. Understanding ferritin's function is significant in assessing iron status and diagnosing related disorders.
