Question

Hepcidin binds to the ferroportin transporter on intestinal mucosal cells and macrophages, thus inhibiting iron absorption and limiting iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors. What is the function of hepcidin?

1) Promotes iron absorption
2) Enhances iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors
3) Inhibits iron absorption
4) Facilitates iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors

Answer 1

Hepcidin binds to the ferroportin transporter on intestinal mucosal cells and macrophages to inhibit iron absorption and limit iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hepcidin, a protein in the body, has the function of inhibiting iron absorption and limiting iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors. It does this by binding to the ferroportin transporter on intestinal mucosal cells and macrophages. This prevents iron from being absorbed in the intestine and limits the transfer of iron from macrophages to the cells that produce red blood cells.