该基因编码一种分子量约为76.5 kDa的糖蛋白。它被认为是由于一个古老的基因复制事件而产生的，该事件导致了同源的C和N端结构域的产生，每个结构域结合一个铁离子。这种蛋白质的功能是将铁从肠、网状内皮系统和肝实质细胞运输到体内所有增殖细胞。这种蛋白质也可以作为粒细胞/花粉结合蛋白（GPBP）的生理作用，涉及去除血清中的某些有机物质和变应原。
This gene encodes a glycoprotein with an approximate molecular weight of 76.5 kDa. It is thought to have been created as a result of an ancient gene duplication event that led to generation of homologous C and N-terminal domains each of which binds one ion of ferric iron. The function of this protein is to transport iron from the intestine, reticuloendothelial system, and liver parenchymal cells to all proliferating cells in the body. This protein may also have a physiologic role as granulocyte/pollen-binding protein (GPBP) involved in the removal of certain organic matter and allergens from serum.