Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, preventing the creation of harmful free radicals by oxidizing Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺, thus playing a key role in iron homeostasis and protecting the body from iron-induced oxidative damage.
Ferritin is an intracellular protein that stores iron and controls its release in the body. It helps in preventing the formation of free radicals through the Fenton reaction by binding iron in its ferric form (Fe³⁺). Ferritin can store up to 4500 iron atoms, readily converting Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺ and back when the body requires iron, such as for the synthesis of hemoglobin or other iron-dependent functions.
Interconversion between ferric and ferrous iron is facilitated in the presence of reductants like ascorbic acid (vitamin C), ensuring precise regulation of iron bioavailability and solubility within the body.
Consequently, ferritin's role in iron metabolism is crucial as it serves both as an iron reserve and a protective agent against iron-induced oxidative stress. This mechanism is essential to maintain iron homeostasis and ensure that necessary physiological functions, like oxygen transport and cellular respiration, are supported without the risk of iron overload or toxicity.