Characterization of Serum Ferritin in Iron Overload: Possible Identity to Natural Apoferritin

Abstract
Serum ferritins from a patient with hemochromatosis and from a patient with transfusional siderosis were compared with tissue isoferritins on the basis of their Fe content, isoferritin spectrum and immunological properties. Both serum ferritins had a low Fe content and corresponded to only the most basic isoferritins in liver. The serum ferritins were very similar to the natural apoferritin from liver in all respects.