Question

Some of the iron absorbed in the duodenum is taken up by hepatocytes for storage as ferritin. What is the purpose of storing iron as ferritin?

1) To transport iron to other cells
2) To release iron into the bloodstream
3) To prevent iron toxicity
4) To convert iron into a usable form

Answer 1

Iron is stored as ferritin to prevent iron toxicity and can be released into the bloodstream when needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of storing iron as ferritin is to prevent iron toxicity.

Ferritin is a protein that can store large amounts of iron. By storing iron as ferritin, the hepatocytes in the liver reduce the risk of excess iron causing damage in the body.

When the body needs iron, the stored iron can be released from ferritin into the bloodstream.