Answer
The function of the protein transferrin is to be a carrier for ferric iron (Fe+++)
Work Step by Step
When erythrocytes become worn out and rupture they are phagocytized by macrophages. During this process the heme protein part (globulin) and the iron part( Fe+++) of the hemoglobin molecule are separated.. The Fe+++ fraction becomes attached to the protein transferrin . This compound , (transferrin-Fe+++) is transported to several sites--liver, muscles, spleen etc.-- where the Fe+++ ions dissociate from transferrin and attach to ferritin carriers. The ferritin-Fe+++ compounds are in trn transported to red bone marrow where the component substances are recycled: the Fe+++ ion is utilized in synthesizing the heme part of hemoglobin and the amino acids of the ferritin are used in globin synthesis. Heme and globulin are then combined to form new hemoglobin molecules and used in the formation of new erythrocytes (RBCs).
