Iron is a vital trace element required for various biological processes, including oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and electron transport. However, the body cannot absorb ferric iron directly from the diet. Ferric reductase facilitates the conversion of ferric iron to ferrous iron, which can then be absorbed by the divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) in the enterocytes. This enzyme ensures that sufficient iron is available for physiological needs, while also preventing iron overload, which can be toxic.
