Fe3ferritin
Fe3ferritin is a descriptive term rather than a distinct protein class. It refers to ferritin complexes in which the stored iron is predominantly in the ferric oxidation state (Fe3+) and organized into a mineral-like core inside the protein shell. Ferritin is a ubiquitous iron storage protein that forms a roughly spherical 24-subunit nanocage. The external diameter is about 12 nanometers, and the internal cavity is roughly 8 nanometers across, enabling storage of thousands of iron atoms as Fe3+ in a ferrihydrite-like mineral.
Iron uptake and core formation occur when Fe2+ enters ferritin through channels and is oxidized to Fe3+
Biological role and distribution: Ferritin buffers cellular iron, protecting against iron-induced oxidative stress and helping maintain
Clinical and research relevance: Dysregulation of ferritin levels is associated with iron deficiency, anemia of chronic