Ferrochelatase

• OMIM: 612386
• UniProt: P22830

Ferrochelatase (also heme synthase) is the enzyme in all living organisms, which catalyses the last step of the synthesis of heme, the chelation of protoporphyrin with a ferrous ion. Since the reaction in eukaryotes in the mitochondria or chloroplasts takes place, protoporphyrin must first be transported to these compartments; the exact sequence of transport is still unclear. In humans, mutations in the gene FECH to Ferrochelatasemangel, which is responsible for erythropoietic protoporphyria rare genetic disease.

Catalyzed reaction

Fe2 ⇔ 2H

Protoporphyrin IX is chelated with iron -II, protons are cleaved, heme b is formed. Conversely, the enzyme can catalyze the removal of the metal ion in the degradation of various heme. Acting as a cofactor, an iron -sulfur cluster. Recombinant ferrochelatase is to chelate capable of other divalent metal ions such as cobalt, nickel, zinc or copper.