Noun
/ˌeɪ.poʊ.trænˈfɛr.ɪn/
Apotransferrin is the form of transferrin that does not have any bound iron. It serves as a transport protein for iron in the blood, binding to iron ions and facilitating their transport to various tissues in the body. This term is primarily used in medical and biochemical contexts. The frequency of use is relatively low compared to other common medical terms, primarily appearing in specialized written contexts such as scientific literature and medical texts rather than in everyday oral speech.
Apotransferrin plays a critical role in iron metabolism in the human body.
Apotransferrin desempeña un papel crítico en el metabolismo del hierro en el cuerpo humano.
The levels of apotransferrin can be measured to assess a patient's iron status.
Los niveles de apotransferrin pueden medirse para evaluar el estado del hierro de un paciente.
Researchers are studying the effects of apotransferrin on iron absorption.
Los investigadores están estudiando los efectos de la apotransferrin en la absorción de hierro.
Apotransferrin is not commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, given its specific scientific context. However, within the broader topic of iron transport and metabolism, we can derive concepts and other related expressions.
"Iron out the differences"
“Aclarar las diferencias”
(Helping to resolve conflicts or issues, metaphorically related to iron transport as apotransferrin helps transport iron.)
"Keep the iron in the fire"
“Mantener el hierro en el fuego”
(To maintain an active or ongoing situation, akin to ensuring iron’s presence in bodily functions where apotransferrin plays a role.)
"Strike while the iron is hot"
“Golpear mientras el hierro está caliente”
(To take action at the right moment, metaphorically connecting to the timely transport of iron ions facilitated by transferrins.)
The term apotransferrin is derived from the prefix "apo-", meaning "away from" or "without," and "transferrin," which originates from the Latin word "ferre," meaning "to carry." Thus, apotransferrin literally translates to "the form of transferrin that carries no iron."
Synonyms:
- Transferin (when referring specifically to its iron-free form in some contexts)
Antonyms:
- Holotransferrin (the iron-bound form of transferrin)
- Ferritin (a protein complex that stores iron)
Apotransferrin is a specialized term significant in the fields of biochemistry and medicine, and while it does not commonly feature in idiomatic expressions, its relevance remains crucial in discussions about iron metabolism.