What is the primary mechanism by which hepcidin regulates iron homeostasis in the context of anemia?

A By increasing the absorption of iron from the gut
B By decreasing the release of iron from macrophages
C By binding to ferroportin and inducing its internalization ✓
D By inhibiting the production of erythropoietin

Explanation

Hepcidin plays a crucial role in regulating iron homeostasis by binding to ferroportin, the only known iron exporter, and inducing its internalization and degradation, thereby reducing iron export from cells.

Source

National Institutes of Health (NIH) publications
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high