Final Answer:
The statement given is true because Iron is indeed required by microorganisms for various essential processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is a crucial component for the growth and survival of many bacteria and fungi. In the context of the provided statements, iron-binding to lactoferrin is also true. Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein found in various bodily secretions, such as saliva and milk, and plays a role in limiting the availability of free iron to microbes, thereby hindering their growth.
Moreover, iron is necessary for the functioning of several enzymes. Many enzymes, particularly those involved in electron transport chains and redox reactions, contain iron as a cofactor. Iron's ability to alternate between ferrous (Fe2+) and ferric (Fe3+) states makes it crucial for electron transfer reactions within these enzymes.