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 inhibits iron absorption and limits iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of hepcidin is to inhibit iron absorption and limit iron transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors.

Hepcidin binds to the ferroportin transporter on intestinal mucosal cells and macrophages, preventing the absorption of iron from the intestines and limiting its transfer from macrophages to erythroid precursors.