Ovotransferrin

Ovotransferrin (Gal d 3) is an iron-binding glycoprotein with a molecular weight of 76 KDa. Ovotransferrin belongs to the family of transferrin iron-binding proteins. In addition to its ability to bind iron and other metal ions, the protein has antibacterial properties and also plays an important role in the immunity of chickens and other birds (Giansanti F et al. 2012).

Its amino acid sequence is known (Jäger L et al. 2001). Its amino acid chain folds into 2 domains which are stabilized by internal disulfide bridges. The allergenicity of Gal d3 is lower than that of ovomucoid and ovalbumin. Ovotransferrin is probably analogous to serum transferrin.

1. Giansanti F et al (2012) Physiological roles of ovotransferrin. Biochim Biophys Acta 1820:218-25. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21854833
2. Jäger L et al (2001) Food allergens. In Jäger L et al (ed.) Food allergies and intolerances. Urban&Fischer Publisher p.159