Is haemosiderin always haemoglobin derived?

  • Thread starter sameeralord
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In summary, haemosiderin is not always derived from haemoglobin, but can also come from other sources containing iron. It is a breakdown product of haemoglobin and can be used as a diagnostic tool for certain conditions. Haemosiderin is different from ferritin in that it is a breakdown product and is typically found in tissues rather than blood. While small amounts are harmless, excessive accumulation of haemosiderin can be harmful to organs.
  • #1
sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

Haemosiderin definition says that it is a pigment that occurs when there is a local or systemic excess of iron. Does that mean excess iron deposition can cause haemosiderin pigment, I mean you don't alway need macrophages to eat Hb and make it, just iron is enough. Thanks :smile:
 
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  • #2
Just to clarify are you asking if excess iron is the cause of haemosiderin synthesis? I don't find your post clear to understand.
 

1. Is haemosiderin always haemoglobin derived?

No, haemosiderin can also be derived from other sources such as myoglobin, cytochromes, and enzymes that contain iron.

2. What is the relationship between haemosiderin and haemoglobin?

Haemosiderin is a breakdown product of haemoglobin. When red blood cells are broken down, haemoglobin is released and eventually breaks down into haemosiderin.

3. Can haemosiderin levels be used as a diagnostic tool?

Yes, elevated levels of haemosiderin in the blood or tissues can indicate conditions such as iron overload disorders or chronic hemolytic anemia.

4. How is haemosiderin different from ferritin?

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron for later use, while haemosiderin is a breakdown product of iron-containing proteins like haemoglobin. Ferritin is typically found in the blood, while haemosiderin is found in tissues.

5. Can haemosiderin be harmful to the body?

In small amounts, haemosiderin is harmless. However, excessive accumulation of haemosiderin in tissues can lead to organ damage and dysfunction, particularly in the liver and heart.

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