The Biology of Heme
Heme is a crucial iron-containing molecule that sustains life through oxygen transport, energy generation, and cellular detoxification. Until now, heme as a target has been largely under-appreciated in drug development.
Heme and Porphyrins
Heme is synthesized in developing red blood cells through an 8-step reaction. The precursors to heme are porphyrins, ringed organic molecules.
Heme in disease
As heme is a vital molecule, mistakes in heme synthesis or transport drive diseases such as porphyrias, cancer, and tissue injury.
Porphyrias
Include Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP) and X-linked Protoporphyria (XLP). Mutations in heme synthesis enzymes lead to the toxic accumulation of heme precursors.
Cancer
Overdrive of heme consumption by tumors fuels cancer growth and progression.
Heme Injury
The release of heme as a result of tissue damage or disease causes toxic effects on multiple organs, including the kidneys, heart, and liver.
