Final answer:
The ferroportin transporter is responsible for transporting iron from the duodenal cell into the blood, where it binds to transferrin for distribution throughout the body. Iron is critical for hemoglobin production and is stored in the body as ferritin and hemosiderin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ferroportin transporter is a protein that facilitates the transport of ferrous iron (Fe2+) from the duodenal cell into the blood. Once ferrous iron is in the plasma, it is quickly oxidized to the ferric form (Fe3+) and bounds to a protein called transferrin for transport to various cells for use or storage. Iron is vital for many processes in the body, particularly for the production of hemoglobin, and its regulation is critical to ensure that iron homeostasis is maintained. The storage of iron in the body is managed primarily by the protein compounds ferritin and hemosiderin.