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Hepcidin and Tissue-Specific Iron Regulatory Networks.
Samira Lakhal-Littleton1, Carole Peyssonnaux2,3
1Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK. samira.lakhal-littleton@dpag.ox.ac.uk.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|July 2, 2025
Summary
Hepcidin, a liver-secreted hormone, also acts locally in various organs. This local hepcidin influences iron pathways in both health and disease, impacting barrier function and tissue repair.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
- Physiology
Background:
- Hepcidin is the primary iron-regulating hormone, mainly produced by the liver.
- Emerging evidence suggests local hepcidin production in non-hepatic tissues.
- Local hepcidin mediates autocrine/paracrine functions in various physiological and pathophysiological states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the diverse local roles of hepcidin beyond its endocrine function.
- To highlight hepcidin's involvement in iron-dependent pathways within specific cells and organs.
- To discuss hepcidin's contribution to tissue homeostasis and disease pathology.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on hepcidin's local production and function.
- Analysis of studies investigating hepcidin in various pathophysiological conditions.
- Synthesis of data on hepcidin's roles in barrier maintenance, host defense, and tissue repair.
Main Results:
- Hepcidin exhibits significant autocrine/paracrine activity in multiple organs.
- Local hepcidin is crucial for iron homeostasis in non-hepatic tissues.
- Hepcidin plays roles in barrier integrity, immune response, and tissue repair processes.
Conclusions:
- Hepcidin's functions extend beyond endocrine regulation, with critical local roles.
- Understanding local hepcidin action is vital for comprehending iron metabolism in health and disease.
- Targeting local hepcidin may offer therapeutic strategies for various conditions.
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