Iron Stain Kit (Prussian Blue Stain)

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Iron is a chemical element essential for various metabolic processes. It functions as a cofactor for proteins involved in oxygen transport and electron transfer. Iron exists in several forms including ferritin and hemosiderin and has a molecular mass of approximately 55.85 dalton. In human bodies iron is expressed mainly in red blood cells liver muscle tissues and is stored in ferritin complexes. For histological studies techniques such as iron staining and Perls Prussian blue are used to visualize iron in tissues. Additionally assays of iron and iron TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity) measure iron levels and binding affinity.

Biological function summary

Iron plays a role in cellular respiration DNA synthesis and electron transport. It is essential in hemoglobin within red blood cells and myoglobin in muscles where it binds and transports oxygen. Iron is also part of the iron-sulfur cluster and heme complexes important for electron exchange in cells. The blue stain used in histology highlights areas rich in iron aiding in diagnosis and research. You can assess iron availability and transport through tests like iron + TIBC.

Pathways

Iron is integral to oxygen transport and mitochondrial electron transport chain regulation. It is important in erythropoiesis and energy production. Iron works with proteins like transferrin and ferritin important for maintaining iron homeostasis. Cytochrome oxidase a heme-containing enzyme plays an essential role in electron transport linked with iron. Iron is also vital in modulating cellular oxidative stress pathways which help in managing reactive oxygen species.

Associated diseases and disorders

Abnormal iron metabolism leads to conditions like anemia and hemochromatosis. In anemia deficiency of iron results in reduced oxygen transport due to low hemoglobin levels. Hemochromatosis on the other hand involves iron overload damaging organs like the liver and heart. The balance of iron is regulated by proteins including transferrin and ferritin which maintain necessary levels for cellular function and prevent toxic accumulation. The use of iron staining in histology assists in identifying iron-related pathologies.