Ovotransferrin (LTF) Chicken Native Protein

Function: Transferrins are iron binding transport proteins which can bind two Fe3+ ions in association with the binding of an anion, usually bicarbonate. Responsible for the transport of iron from sites of absorption and heme degradation to those of storage and utilization. There are two forms of hen transferrin, ovotransferrin, found in the ovoducts and, serum transferrin, secreted by the liver. Serum transferrin may also have a role in stimulating cell proliferation and is regulated by iron levels. Ovotransferrin has a bacteriostatic function and, is not controlled by iron levels.

Subunit structure: Monomer.

Subcellular location: Secreted.

Post-translational modification: Different forms of hen transferrin are distinguished by their carbohydrate composition. Ovotransferrin and embryo serum transferrin but not adult serum transferrin, have bisecting N-acetylglucosamine. Transferrin secreted by embryo hepatocytes in primary culture is marked by the presence of (alpha1-6) fucosylation of the core N-acetylglucosamine. Serum transferrins also differ in the number of attached neuraminic acid residues. In both embryo forms, sialylation occurs on the Man (alpha 1-3)-linked antennae.

Allergenic properties: Causes an allergic reaction in human.

Sequence similarities: Belongs to the transferrin family.Contains 2 transferrin-like domains.