ferritin

noun

fer·​ri·​tin ˈfer-ə-tən 

: a crystalline iron-containing protein that functions in the storage of iron and is found especially in the liver and spleen

Examples of ferritin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The ferritin test is a blood test that measures ferritin levels in the bloodstream. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 5 Nov. 2024

The researchers engineered an ion channel protein with a protein nanobody that sticks to a natural iron-trapping protein called ferritin. —New Atlas, 13 Oct. 2024

To determine someone’s iron count, labs look at the concentration of ferritin — the protein that stores iron — in their blood. —Lourdes Medrano, NPR, 15 Sep. 2024

Research has demonstrated that low levels of ferritin cause a disruption in dopamine activity. —Kate Harrington, The Conversation, 25 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, alteration of ferratin, iron-containing protein, from Latin ferratus bound with iron (from ferrum) + International Scientific Vocabulary -in

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

ferritin

noun

fer·​ri·​tin ˈfer-ət-ən 

: a crystalline iron-containing protein that functions in the storage of iron and is found especially in the liver and spleen compare hemosiderin