Liver-produced hormone that constitutes the main circulating regulator of iron absorption and distribution across tissues. Acts by promoting endocytosis and degradation of ferroportin/SLC40A1, leading to the retention of iron in iron-exporting cells and decreased flow of iron into plasma ( ). Controls the major flows of iron into plasma: absorption of dietary iron in the intestine, recycling of iron by macrophages, which phagocytose old erythrocytes and other cells, and mobilization of stored iron from hepatocytes .
Has strong antimicrobial activity against E.coli ML35P N.cinerea and weaker against S.epidermidis, S.aureus and group b streptococcus bacteria. Active against the fungus C.albicans. No activity against P.aeruginosa (, ).
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Highest expression in liver and to a lesser extent in heart and brain. Low levels in lung, tonsils, salivary gland, trachea, prostate gland, adrenal gland and thyroid gland. Secreted into the urine and blood . Expressed by hepatocytes .