SIDEROPHILIN Meaning and
Definition
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Siderophilin, also known as transferrin, is a globular, iron-binding protein found in the blood and various bodily fluids. It plays a crucial role in transporting iron throughout the body, assisting in its absorption, storage, and utilization.
The term "siderophilin" is derived from the Greek words "sideros" meaning iron and "philo" meaning loving, implying its affinity for iron. This protein is produced primarily by the liver, though certain immune cells also contribute to its production.
Siderophilin consists of two identical peptide chains linked together, forming a bilobed structure. Each lobe of the protein has a specific iron-binding site, allowing it to carry two molecules of iron at a time. It binds to iron ions with high affinity, forming a stable complex that helps transport iron safely throughout the body.
Iron is an essential mineral required for various biological processes, such as oxygen transportation, energy production, and DNA synthesis. Siderophilin ensures that iron is supplied to different tissues and cells according to their needs, while preventing its toxicity by tightly binding it.
Measurement of siderophilin levels is often used in diagnostic tests to assess iron status and certain medical conditions, such as iron deficiency anemia or iron overload disorders. Abnormal levels of siderophilin can indicate iron imbalances, helping guide appropriate treatment strategies.
In summary, siderophilin is an iron-binding protein that plays a pivotal role in iron transport and metabolism. Its ability to bind and carry iron makes it a critical component in the body's iron homeostasis.
Common Misspellings for SIDEROPHILIN
- aiderophilin
- ziderophilin
- xiderophilin
- diderophilin
- eiderophilin
- widerophilin
- suderophilin
- sjderophilin
- skderophilin
- soderophilin
- s9derophilin
- s8derophilin
- siserophilin
- sixerophilin
- sicerophilin
- siferophilin
- sirerophilin
- sieerophilin
- sidwrophilin
Etymology of SIDEROPHILIN
The word "siderophilin" is derived from two Greek roots:
1. "Sidero-" (σίδηρος): meaning "iron".
2. "Philos" (φίλος): meaning "loving" or "having an affinity for".
Therefore, "siderophilin" can be interpreted as "iron-loving" or "having an affinity for iron".
Similar spelling words for SIDEROPHILIN
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