Transferrin is a key iron-transport protein in the blood. Its primary role is to deliver iron to cells, where it is essential for oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and energy metabolism. In the context of longevity, iron homeostasis is relevant because excess iron can promote oxidative stress and cellular damage, which are linked to aging and age-related diseases. Some observational studies suggest that high iron stores (e.g., elevated ferritin) are associated with reduced lifespan, while transferrin levels reflect iron transport capacity. However, the evidence for transferrin as a direct longevity biomarker is weak and mostly mechanistic. There are no robust clinical trials showing that modulating transferrin extends lifespan. Caveat: consumer tests measuring transferrin are not diagnostic for longevity; results should be interpreted with a healthcare professional and combined with other markers like ferritin, CRP, and genetic variants (e.g., HFE).
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