Transferrin, a Cell Pilot and Iron Provider Based on its Interaction with the Overexpressed Transferrin Receptors

Abstract

Transferrin (Tf) is the serum protein responsible for delivering iron to the erythron and peripheral tissues. Transferrin receptor (TfR), a key receptor in the regulation of iron and is activated by the ferric ion loaded Tf, is overexpressed on the surface of various cancer cells due to their malignant transformation. Based on the Tf-TfR transport mechanism, Tf has been projected to be dually used as a pilot for nanoparticles to target the tumor cells with over expressed TfRs and an intracellular iron provider. Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) is believed a promising tumor therapeutic agent for its unique mechanism of cytotoxicity. When DHA chemically damaging cells, ferrous ions are required to react with the drug. In this research highlight, we discuss our latest published findings which demonstrate the enhanced cytotoxicity of DHA helped with a nanographene oxide carrier and the Tf-TfR transport system, and the potential for its anti-tumor application. This approach gives a further understanding on the role of ligand and receptor in tumor treatments.