The peptide hormone hepcidin: the main regulator of iron metabolism

Sa？etak Hepcidin is a peptide hormone and the main regulator of iron metabolism in the body. It was discovered in human serum and urine in 2000 and named liver expressed antimicrobial protein-1 (LEAP-1). Research of antimicrobial peptides in relation to inflammatory response was conducted by Tomas Ganz. He named the protein hepcidin as it is produced by the liver and also has antimicrobial properties. The mouse model has been used in numerous studies on the role of hepcidin and its excretion regulation. It has also been shown that the synthesis of hepcidin is greatly stimulated by inflammation or iron overload. Hepcidin detection in serum and other body fluids is performed by the ELISA assay and mass spectrometry. The hepcidin concentrations in plasma measured by ELISA and by mass spectrometry are in correlation. ELISA assay is the most favourable method for the detection and measurement of hepcidin in low concentrations in fluids, whereas mass spectrometry is a more suitable measurement method for the active form of hepcidin. Chronic anaemia, sideropenic anaemia, malignant diseases, hereditary hemochromatosis, and ineffective erythropoiesis can all disrupt hepcidin secretion. Therefore, hepcidin concentrations may have significant relevance in the diagnosis and treatment of iron imbalance. Improving the knowledge of the role of hepcidin in iron haemostasis can lead to new treatment possibilities in cases of increased or decreased iron concentrations. Hepcidin has recently been identified as an acute phase protein with antimicrobial and iron regulatory roles. Many researchers have contributed to the development of diagnostic testing to assess canine hepcidin concentrations, with research focusing on cloning and sequencing the genes that regulate canine hepcidin production. Phylogenetic studies have revealed that human hepcidin is more similar to canine than murine hepcidin. In dogs, as in humans, hepcidin is predominantly produced in the liver. In dogs, it has been detected in kidneys and in the lungs. Based on this review article, a new foundation has been laid for novel research of canine hepcidin. The dog could serve as a suitable model to elucidate the role of human hepcidin