Iron Regulatory Proteins (IRPs) are essential for maintaining iron homeostasis in the body. They help regulate the levels of iron by binding to specific RNA sequences in the mRNA of proteins involved in iron metabolism, such as ferritin and transferrin receptor. This binding influences the stability and translation of these mRNAs, ensuring that iron is available when needed and preventing toxicity when levels are high. There are two main types of IRPs: IRP1 and IRP2. IRP1 can function as an enzyme in the presence of sufficient iron, while IRP2 is primarily regulated by cellular iron levels. Together, these proteins play a crucial role in controlling iron absorption, storage, and distribution within the body.