What is the primary mechanism by which hepcidin regulates iron metabolism in the body?

A By inhibiting the absorption of iron from the gut
B By stimulating the release of iron from macrophages
C By reducing the expression of ferroportin on enterocytes and macrophages ✓
D By increasing the synthesis of transferrin

Explanation

Hepcidin plays a crucial role in regulating iron metabolism by binding to ferroportin, causing it to be internalized and degraded, thereby reducing iron export from cells.

Source

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high