Several pathologic conditions are associated with hemolysis, ie release of ferrous (Fe (II))
hemoglobin from red blood cells. Oxidation of cell-free hemoglobin produces (Fe (III))
methemoglobin. More extensive oxidation produces (Fe (III)/Fe (IV)= O) ferryl hemoglobin.
Both cell-free methemoglobin and ferryl hemoglobin are thought to contribute to the
pathogenesis of hemolytic disorders. We show hereby that ferryl hemoglobin, but not
hemoglobin or methemoglobin, acts as a potent proinflammatory agonist that induces …