Also, it transports a small amount of carbon dioxide. Therefore, the main function of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen throughout the body. Hemoglobin is the iron-containing metalloprotein in the red blood cells of vertebrates. In addition, low levels of iron lead to iron deficiency anemia.

Also, the immunity of the body depends on the levels of iron in the body. Apart from that, iron is important for collagen synthesis and production of neurotransmitters. Therefore, it is important for various respiratory and metabolic activities. Iron can release oxygen at the metabolizing tissues based on the pH differences in the blood. After binding to oxygen, it becomes oxidized (Fe 3+). Generally, it occurs in its reduced state (Fe 2+) in the porphyrin ring of hemoglobin. Moreover, the RDA (recommended dietary allowances) of iron in 8 mg per men and it is 18 mg for women.įigure 1: Different Molecules Bound to Iron in the Porphyrin Ringįurthermore, the main function of iron is to bind with oxygen. A small amount of iron is transported through the blood by binding to transferrin. Also, myoglobin and some enzymes in muscles contain iron. Some amount of iron remains stored in the heart, liver, bone marrow by binding to ferritin. Around 70% of the iron in the body occurs as a part of hemoglobin. Iron is a metal ion, which is an essential micronutrient for the functioning of the body. – Comparison of Key Differences Key TermsĪnemia, Hemoglobin, Iron, Oxygen Transport, Red Blood Cells What is the Difference Between Iron and Hemoglobin What are the Similarities Between Iron and HemoglobinĤ. Both iron deficiency and deficiency of hemoglobin cause anemia. Iron and hemoglobin are two molecules related to oxygen transport by red blood cells. Furthermore, iron binds with oxygen while hemoglobin serves as an oxygen carrier molecule. The main difference between iron and hemoglobin is that iron is the metal ion bound to the hemoglobin whereas hemoglobin is the metalloprotein found in red blood cells.

Iron charge level ions in blood