Blood Res.  2013 Mar;48(1):10-15. 10.5045/br.2013.48.1.10.

Role of hepcidin in the pathophysiology and diagnosis of anemia

• D'Angelo G

• KMID: 2270720
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5045/br.2013.48.1.10

Abstract

This review summarizes the central role of hepcidin in the iron homeostasis mechanism, the molecular mechanism that can alter hepcidin expression, the relationship between hepcidin and erythropoiesis, and the pathogenetic role of hepcidin in different types of anemia. In addition, the usefulness of hepcidin dosage is highlighted, including the problems associated with analytical methods currently used as well as the measures of its molecular isoforms. Considering the central role of hepcidin in iron arrangement, it is reasonable to ponder its therapeutic use mainly in cases of iron overload. Further clinical trials are required before implementation.

Keyword

Anemia; Hepcidin; Ferroportin; Hepcidin measurement; Hepcidin agonist therapy

MeSH Terms

Anemia
Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
Cation Transport Proteins
Erythropoiesis
Homeostasis
Iron
Iron Overload
Protein Isoforms
Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides
Cation Transport Proteins
Iron
Protein Isoforms

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Inflammation increases interleukin-6 production. The consequent increase in hepcidin blocks macrophage iron release as well as the intestinal absorption of iron, resulting in hypoferremia. Abbreviations: TF, transferrin; Fe, iron; DMT1, divalent metal transporter 1.

• 

  Fig. 2 Pathophysiology of hemochromatosis and anemia of chronic disease.

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