The TFR2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called transferrin receptor 2. The main function of this protein is to help iron enter liver cells (hepatocytes). On the surface of hepatocytes, the receptor binds to a protein called transferrin, which transports iron through the blood to tissues throughout the body. When transferrin binds to transferrin receptor 2, iron is allowed to enter the cell.
Additionally, transferrin receptor 2 can bind to other proteins to help regulate iron storage levels in the body by controlling the levels of another protein called hepcidin. Hepcidin is a protein that determines how much iron is absorbed from the diet and released from storage sites in the body in response to iron levels.
Other Names
HFE3; TFR2_HUMAN; Transferrin Receptor Protein 2
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 7036
- OMIM: 604720
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
