Siderophores

Siderophores

Siderophores (pronounced: /ˈsaɪdərəfɔːrz/) are small, high-affinity iron-chelating compounds secreted by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi and serve to transport iron across cell membranes.

Etymology

The term "siderophore" comes from the Greek words "sidero-" meaning iron, and "-phore" meaning carrier, thus translating to "iron carrier".

Function

Iron is a vital nutrient for almost all living organisms due to its involvement in a wide range of metabolic processes. However, its bioavailability is often limited, especially in aerobic environments where it predominantly exists in its insoluble ferric (Fe3+) form. To overcome this limitation, many microorganisms produce siderophores to scavenge iron from these environments.

Types of Siderophores

There are three main types of siderophores: catecholates, hydroxamates, and carboxylates. Each type has a different mechanism for iron binding and transport.

Catecholates

Catecholates are the most common type of siderophores and include enterobactin and bacillibactin. They have a high affinity for iron and are often produced by bacteria in iron-limited environments.

Hydroxamates

Hydroxamates, such as desferrioxamine and ferrichrome, are produced by both bacteria and fungi. They have a lower affinity for iron compared to catecholates but are more stable in acidic environments.

Carboxylates

Carboxylates, including rhizoferrin and staphyloferrin, are less common and have the lowest affinity for iron. However, they are more soluble in water and can therefore transport iron over longer distances.

Clinical Significance

Siderophores have been implicated in the pathogenesis of many infectious diseases, as they allow pathogens to survive in the iron-limited environment of the host. They are therefore potential targets for the development of new antimicrobial therapies.

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Siderophores
• Wikipedia's article - Siderophores

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