Transferrin carries iron
Biomarker library
Iron Status
Transferrin
Transferrin is the protein that ferries iron through your bloodstream, delivering it to the bone marrow to make red cells and to every tissue that needs it.
Measured in your health assessment, with a doctor to explain your result. Book yours
Why it matters
Each molecule carries two iron atoms and docks onto receptors on cells that need iron. The liver adjusts how much transferrin it makes according to the body's needs.
What a result can mean
Lower than the range
Low levels are seen with inflammation, liver disease, protein loss through the kidneys, poor nutrition and iron overload.
Higher than the range
A raised transferrin is typical of iron deficiency, pregnancy and oestrogen treatment.
What can help
Like TIBC, transferrin returns to normal when the underlying iron status or condition is dealt with.
Read it with
NoteGeneral educational illustration. Colours, sizes and movement are simplified. This is not a scan or a simulation of your body. General information, not personal medical advice: a doctor reads your own results with your history.
Know your transferrin.
Measured in your health assessment and explained by the doctor who reviews your results.