Iron plays a crucial role in various biological processes, primarily through its function in metal complexes. A notable example is hemoglobin, which utilizes iron to bind and transport oxygen in the bloodstream. While hemoglobin is a protein and not an enzyme, it exemplifies another significant biological use of iron. The discussion highlights that iron primarily acts through forming complexes, such as heme porphyrins, which can also catalyze reactions. The conversation touches on the distinction between proteins and enzymes, emphasizing that while all enzymes are proteins, not all proteins are enzymes. Overall, the primary biological uses of iron revolve around its role in complex formation, particularly in proteins like hemoglobin.
