Transferrin is a single polypeptide chain glycoprotein and is a member of the iron binding family of proteins. It has a molecular weight of 79.5kD and a serum concentration range of 1800–2700mg/L. It is synthesized in the liver and consists of two domains each having a high affinity reversible binding site for Fe3+. The iron is transported in blood and interstitial fluids to sites of use and disposal. Iron/transferrin is essential in hemoglobin synthesis and for certain types of cell division. Serum concentration rises in iron deficiency and pregnancy and falls in iron overload, infection and inflammatory conditions.
