heme

noun

ˈhēm 

: the deep red iron-containing prosthetic group C₃₄H₃₂N₄O₄Fe of hemoglobin and myoglobin

Examples of heme in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Each globular protein has an iron-bearing complex called heme at the center. —Byandrew Zaleski, science.org, 3 July 2024

Here’s another hint... Jewelry locations There are eight heme words to find today, including the spangram. —Kris Holt, Forbes, 15 Sep. 2024

The heme complexes capture oxygen, turning bright red and endowing blood cells with their color. —Byandrew Zaleski, science.org, 3 July 2024

Red Meats Some compounds and heme iron in red meat are believed to promote the growth of cancerous tumors. —Cathy Nelson, Verywell Health, 16 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from hematin

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

heme

noun

ˈhēm 

: a deep red pigment that contains iron and is obtained from hemoglobin

Medical Definition

heme

noun

variants or chiefly British haem

ˈhēm 

: the deep red iron-containing prosthetic group C₃₄H₃₂N₄O₄Fe of hemoglobin and myoglobin that is a ferrous derivative of protoporphyrin and readily oxidizes to hematin or hemin

called also protoheme