Heme synthesis is the process by which the body produces heme, an essential component of hemoglobin found in red blood cells. Heme is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body. The synthesis occurs mainly in the liver and bone marrow, starting with the precursor molecule glycine and succinyl-CoA, which undergo a series of enzymatic reactions. The pathway involves several key steps, including the formation of porphobilinogen and protoporphyrin IX, before finally incorporating iron to create heme. Disruptions in heme synthesis can lead to disorders such as porphyrias, which can cause various health issues related to the accumulation of porphyrins.