Question 1
What is the major metabolically available storage form of iron in the body?
- A. Hemosiderin
- B. Ferritin
- C. Transferrin
- D. Hemoglobin
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Ferritin
The correct answer is B: Ferritin. Ferritin is the major metabolically available storage form of iron in the body. It stores excess iron in a soluble and non-toxic form, releasing it when needed for various physiological functions. Rationale: 1. Ferritin is a protein that binds and stores iron within its structure. 2. It helps regulate the levels of iron in the body by storing excess iron and releasing it when needed. 3. Hemosiderin is an insoluble form of iron storage, not readily available for metabolism. 4. Transferrin is a transport protein that carries iron in the blood, not a storage form. 5. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, not a storage form of iron. Summary: Ferritin is the correct answer as it is the primary metabolically available storage form of iron, while the other choices are incorrect as they do not serve as major storage forms of iron in the body.