Bioinspired and biomimetic systems-Factors affecting the design of biomimetic ferrichrome analogues

摘要

Iron is an essential element for virtually all life forms. However, in the oxidizing earth atmosphere it exists as insoluble ferric (Fe(III)) polymers. To overcome iron deficiency, microorganisms have developed a unique acquisition system. This system consists of: (i) secreted iron chelators, called siderophores, which bind and solubilize iron, and (ii) specific outer membrane receptors, that deliver the siderophore-iron complex into the microbial cell by active transport.