What would be the consequence if an individual was homozygous for an IBP that could not bind iron but could bind to the IRE?
A) Unregulated transferrin receptor levels
B) Increased degradation of ferritin
C) Possible iron toxicity to the cells at levels of iron that would not normally be toxic to a cell
D) There would be no predicted consequence to iron metabolism in the cell

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If an individual is homozygous for an IBP that cannot bind iron but can bind to the IRE, this would result in unregulated transferrin receptor levels leading to enhanced uptake of iron by the cells. Since the IBP cannot bind iron, there would be a buildup of free iron within the cell which can cause oxidative damage leading to cell death. Iron toxicity can occur at levels of iron that would not normally be toxic to a cell, resulting in cell damage and dysfunction.

What Would Be the Consequence If an Individual Was Homozygous