Release of iron from ferritin by 6-hydroxydopamine under aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) proved to be a very effective agent for iron release from ferritin. Iron release was enhanced in the presence of SOD, catalase and under anaerobic conditions. Ascorbic acid, a well known agent able to release iron from ferritin, increased the amount of released iron in more than an additive manner when used in combination with 6-OHDA. Similar to 6-OHDA, 6-hydroxydopa (Topa) and 1,2,4-benzenetriol were also able to release iron in large amounts; in contrast, catecholamines and other benzenediols were comparatively ineffective.