Transferrin receptor

The Transferrin receptor (pronunciation: trans-fur-in re-sep-tor) is a type of protein that is crucial for the process of iron uptake in cells.

Etymology

The term "Transferrin receptor" is derived from the protein "Transferrin" which is responsible for the transport of iron in the blood, and "receptor" which refers to a protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.

Function

The Transferrin receptor binds to Transferrin, a glycoprotein responsible for iron transport in the blood. This binding allows for the uptake of iron into cells, a process that is essential for cell growth and proliferation.

Structure

The Transferrin receptor is a dimeric glycoprotein composed of two subunits. Each subunit binds to one Transferrin molecule, allowing for the transport of two iron ions per receptor.

Related Terms

Iron: A chemical element that is crucial for various biological processes, including oxygen transport and DNA synthesis.
Transferrin: A glycoprotein that binds and transports iron in the blood.
Receptor: A protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.
Glycoprotein: A type of protein that has carbohydrate groups attached to the polypeptide chain.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Transferrin receptor
Wikipedia's article - Transferrin receptor

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Transferrin receptor