Insect transferrins: Multifunctional proteins

► Insect transferrins have domains similar to mammalian Tsf that bind iron. ► The fat body is the likely source of insect hemolymph transferrin. ► Female insects endow Tsf1 to developing eggs as a vitellogenic protein. ► Insect transferrins transport dietary iron to tissues and developing embryos. ► Insect transferrins are increased during infection and limit free iron in hemolymph.