Hemosiderophage

Hemosiderophagus (haemosiderophagus; hemo- + siderophage) is an organism that feeds on hemosiderin.

Hemosiderin is an iron-containing pigment that is formed during the destruction of hemoglobin in the cells of the reticuloendothelial system. It accumulates in the form of grains in the cytoplasm of macrophages.

Some parasitic protozoa, such as Plasmodium parasites, are hemosiderophages. They absorb hemosiderin from host cells to obtain the iron they need for growth and reproduction.

Hemosiderophages play an important role in the pathogenesis of some diseases associated with impaired iron metabolism. Their study allows us to better understand the mechanisms of development of these diseases and develop effective treatment methods.