Hepcidin

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Hepcidin

Hepcidin (pronounced hep-SID-in) is a hormone produced by the liver that plays a central role in regulating iron metabolism in the body.

Etymology

The term "hepcidin" is derived from the words "hepatic" (meaning liver) and "cidin" (meaning kills), reflecting its origin and function.

Function

Hepcidin regulates iron metabolism by binding to the iron export channel ferroportin, which is located on the basolateral surface of gut enterocytes and the plasma membrane of reticuloendothelial cells. When hepcidin binds to ferroportin, it causes the internalization and degradation of the transporter, thereby inhibiting iron export from cells into the blood.

Related Terms

  • Iron metabolism: The set of chemical reactions that maintain the human body's iron balance.
  • Ferroportin: A protein that exports iron from cells to the blood.
  • Enterocytes: Cells in the lining of the small intestine and colon.
  • Reticuloendothelial cells: Cells that form part of the immune system and are involved in the breakdown of red blood cells.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal levels of hepcidin can lead to iron-related disorders. High levels of hepcidin can cause anemia due to insufficient iron supply to the red blood cells. On the other hand, low levels of hepcidin can lead to iron overload, which can damage organs such as the liver and heart.

See Also

External links

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