Ferric ion (Fe3+) (Fe3+)

Ferric ion (Fe3+) is the trivalent oxidation state of iron and is an essential component of numerous proteins and enzymes required for life. It plays a central role in oxygen transport as part of the heme group in hemoglobin and myoglobin, and it is a critical cofactor for enzymes involved in DNA synthesis and the mitochondrial electron transport chain (Source: PubChem). Under physiological conditions, iron is strictly regulated by proteins such as transferrin and ferritin to prevent the formation of toxic free radicals. However, in pathological states like beta-thalassemia or hereditary hemochromatosis, the body's iron storage capacity is overwhelmed, leading to the accumulation of labile ferric iron (Source: PubMed, PMID: 24551219). This excess Fe3+ promotes oxidative stress via the Fenton reaction, causing progressive damage to the heart, liver, and endocrine organs. Deferiprone is a bidentate chelating agent that specifically targets and binds Fe3+ in a 3:1 ratio, forming a stable complex that is subsequently excreted by the kidneys (Source: FDA Label, Ferriprox). By removing excess ferric iron from both intracellular and extracellular compartments, deferiprone helps mitigate iron-induced organ toxicity and improves clinical outcomes for patients with chronic iron overload.

Other names

Ferric ironIron (III)Trivalent ironFe(III)Ferric ion

Chelation of ferric ions (Fe3+) in a 3:1 molar ratio to form a stable, neutral complex that is excreted in the urine.