CultureJuly 30, 2026

haem

HEEM

Definition

The iron-containing, non-protein component of hemoglobin that functions as the oxygen-carrying pigment in blood.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'haima', meaning blood, which entered English via the German 'Häm'.

In the news

In this article, researchers optimized the haem pathway within microorganisms to improve the efficiency and production levels of lutein, a vital step in their synthetic process.

Daebong LS seeks to overcome ‘chronic limitations’ via precision fermented lutein

Read the full article ↗

NutraIngredients.com

Related words

biomanufacturing

The use of biological systems, such as microorganisms or enzymes, to produce commercially…

Culture

biomaterial

A substance, natural or synthetic, that is engineered to interact with biological systems…

Culture

biosynthesis

The production of complex chemical compounds or molecules by living organisms, typically…

Culture

carotenoids

A class of naturally occurring yellow, orange, or red pigments found in plants and some…

Culture

lactoferrin

A multifunctional iron-binding protein found in milk and other secretions that plays a…

Culture

lycopene

A bright red carotenoid hydrocarbon found in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables…

Culture

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.