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Ferritin in mollusks: structural diversity and physiological functions
1Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry
|November 26, 2025
Summary
Molluscan ferritin plays diverse roles beyond iron storage, including immunity and tissue mineralization. This review details its structure and varied functions in these invertebrates.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Zoology
- Immunology
Background:
- Ferritin is crucial for iron homeostasis in all organisms.
- Invertebrate studies reveal ferritin's functions beyond iron regulation.
- Mollusks exhibit unique ferritin roles in immunity and biomineralization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review molluscan ferritin.
- To summarize ferritin's molecular structure and diverse physiological functions in mollusks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on molluscan ferritin.
- Analysis of molecular structures and identified physiological roles.
Main Results:
- Molluscan ferritin is involved in immune responses by limiting pathogen iron.
- Ferritin mediates iron transport in hemolymph and aids in shell/radula formation.
- Mollusks possess both cytoplasmic and secretory ferritin types.
Conclusions:
- Molluscan ferritin has multifaceted roles extending beyond iron homeostasis.
- Understanding molluscan ferritin offers insights into invertebrate physiology and evolution.
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