Transferrin

Definition

Transferrin is a blood plasma protein that binds and transports iron throughout the body. It plays a critical role in regulating iron absorption and distribution to various tissues, including erythrocytes for hemoglobin synthesis.

Related terms

Hemoglobin:

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.

Erythrocytes:

Red blood cells that are primarily responsible for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body.

Iron homeostasis: The regulation of iron absorption, utilization, and storage within the body to maintain optimal levels necessary for physiological functions