What is a ferritin?

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. It is found in almost all cells, but is most abundant in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Ferritin helps to regulate the body's iron levels and prevent iron deficiency.

Ferritin is made up of 24 subunits that form a hollow sphere. Each subunit can bind up to 4,500 iron atoms. The iron is stored in the form of a mineral called ferrihydrite.

When the body needs iron, ferritin releases it into the bloodstream. The iron is then transported to cells throughout the body, where it is used for a variety of purposes, including making hemoglobin, myoglobin, and other iron-containing proteins.

Ferritin levels can be affected by a number of factors, including diet, genetics, and health conditions. For example, people who eat a diet low in iron or who have certain genetic disorders may have low ferritin levels. People with certain health conditions, such as cancer, kidney disease, and liver disease, may also have low ferritin levels.

High ferritin levels can be caused by a number of factors, including iron overload, certain genetic disorders, and liver disease. Iron overload can occur if a person takes too much iron supplements or if they have a condition that causes the body to absorb too much iron from food.

Ferritin levels are often measured as part of a routine blood test. If your ferritin levels are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause.