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What protein is responsible for sequestering iron in the human body?

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Final answer:

Ferritin is the protein responsible for sequestering iron in the human body, storing iron in a safe, non-toxic form. Transferrin also plays an essential role by transporting iron in the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

The protein responsible for sequestering iron in the human body is ferritin. This large protein complex oxidizes Fe²+¹ to Fe³+¹, allowing it to store a significant amount of iron within its structure. When needed by a cell, iron can be reduced back to Fe²+¹ and released for biological processes. Transferrin is another key protein in iron metabolism; it forms a complex with Fe³+¹ to transport iron to various cells. Abnormal iron metabolism can lead to conditions like iron overload or anemia.

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