Abstract
Ferritins are protein nanocages with a defined size and shape. They are conserved in all kingdom of life. Ferritins serve as iron storage cage and as protection component against reactive oxygen species generated by the Fenton reaction. These abilities are achieved by the ferritin ability to import iron ions into its core and to convert them into a ferrihydrite mineral as the amorphous iron mineral storage. Using these abilities ferritins become an important tool in biotechnology and materials sciences. Here we will discuss the structure-function relationships of ferritins and their use in biotechnology. We will compare the structure and function of ferritin subunits from several kingdoms and discuss their mode of actions. Moreover, we provide here the basic protocols for the purification of ferritin cages and provide insights into the formation of magnetoferritins.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Iron Oxides |
Subtitle of host publication | From Nature to Applications |
Publisher | wiley |
Pages | 117-141 |
Number of pages | 25 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783527691395 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783527338825 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 29 Apr 2016 |
Keywords
- Ferrihydrite
- Ferritins
- Magnetite
- Magnetoferritins
- Protein nanocage
- Structure-function relationship
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry