Transferrin (TRF) Native Protein

This gene encodes a glycoprotein with an approximate molecular weight of 76.5 kDa. It is thought to have been created as a result of an ancient gene duplication event that led to generation of homologous C and N-terminal domains each of which binds one ion of ferric iron. The function of this protein is to transport iron from the intestine, reticuloendothelial system, and liver parenchymal cells to all proliferating cells in the body. This protein may also have a physiologic role as granulocyte/pollen-binding protein (GPBP) involved in the removal of certain organic matter and allergens from serum. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2009]

TF: Transferrins are iron binding transport proteins which can bind two Fe(3+) ions in association with the binding of an anion, usually bicarbonate. It is responsible for the transport of iron from sites of absorption and heme degradation to those of storage and utilization. Serum transferrin may also have a further role in stimulating cell proliferation. Defects in TF are the cause of atransferrinemia (ATRAF). Atransferrinemia is rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by iron overload and hypochromic anemia. Belongs to the transferrin family.

Protein type: Secreted; Secreted, signal peptide

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 3q22.1

Cellular Component: extracellular space; cell surface; cytoplasmic membrane-bound vesicle; early endosome; extracellular region; coated pit; recycling endosome; perinuclear region of cytoplasm; endocytic vesicle; late endosome; apical plasma membrane; basal plasma membrane; endosome membrane; vesicle

Molecular Function: protein binding; ferric iron binding; ubiquitin protein ligase binding

Biological Process: platelet activation; retinal homeostasis; platelet degranulation; cellular iron ion homeostasis; transferrin transport; blood coagulation; transmembrane transport

Disease: Atransferrinemia