Hepzidine

Hepzidine is a protein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of iron in the body. It is primarily produced in the liver and acts as a key regulator of the entry of iron into the circulation in mammals.

Function

Hepzidine functions by binding to the iron export channel ferroportin (located on the basolateral surface of intestinal enterocytes, in macrophages of the reticuloendothelial system, and in hepatocytes), inducing its internalization and degradation, and thus preventing iron egress from these cells into blood.

Regulation

The production of hepzidine is regulated by several factors. Iron levels in the body, inflammation, and erythropoiesis (the process of producing new red blood cells) all influence the production of hepzidine.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of hepzidine can lead to a variety of iron disorders. High levels of hepzidine can lead to anemia, as it prevents the body from using stored iron. On the other hand, low levels of hepzidine can lead to iron overload, as it allows too much iron to be absorbed from the diet.

See also

• Iron metabolism
• Iron overload
• Anemia

References

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