Abstract
Hepcidin is the master regulator of iron homeostasis in vertebrates. The synthesis of hepcidin is induced by systemic iron levels and by inflammatory stimuli. While the role of hepcidin in iron regulation is well established, its contribution to host defense is emerging as complex and multifaceted. In this review, we summarize the literature on the role of hepcidin as a mediator of antimicrobial immunity. Hepcidin induction during infection causes depletion of extracellular iron, which is thought to be a general defense mechanism against many infections by withholding iron from invading pathogens. Conversely, by promoting iron sequestration in macrophages, hepcidin may be detrimental to cellular defense against certain intracellular infections, although critical in vivo studies are needed to confirm this concept. It is not yet clear whether hepcidin exerts any iron-independent effects on host defenses.
Highlights
Iron is necessary for the function of many proteins, including hemoglobin, myoglobin, and enzymes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, and is essential to the survival of virtually all organisms
We summarize the literature on the role of hepcidin as a mediator of antimicrobial immunity
August 20, 2015 article, we review the literature on the role of hepcidin in the resistance and susceptibility to infectious diseases
Summary
Hepcidin is the master regulator of iron homeostasis in vertebrates. While the role of hepcidin in iron regulation is well established, its contribution to host defense is emerging as complex and multifaceted. We summarize the literature on the role of hepcidin as a mediator of antimicrobial immunity. By promoting iron sequestration in macrophages, hepcidin may be detrimental to cellular defense against certain intracellular infections, critical in vivo studies are needed to confirm this concept. It is not yet clear whether hepcidin exerts any iron-independent effects on host defenses
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have