Targeting Hepcidin in Anemia: A New Frontier for Precision Medicine?

Anemia is a common and multifactorial condition, often resulting from iron deficiency, chronic disease, or genetic disorders. One key regulator of iron homeostasis is hepcidin, a liver-produced hormone that plays a pivotal role in iron metabolism. Elevated or dysregulated hepcidin levels can lead to iron-restricted anemia, while reduced hepcidin expression can contribute to iron overload conditions. This review aims to explore the role of hepcidin in anemia and its potential as a target for precision medicine. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying hepcidin regulation, its interaction with iron transporters like ferroportin, and the clinical implications of hepcidin dysfunction in various types of anemia. Moreover, we examine the emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating hepcidin expression or activity to treat iron-related disorders. Understanding the intricate regulation of hepcidin offers exciting prospects for precision-based therapies in anemia management, with potential applications in both iron-deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease. Keywords: Hepcidin, Anemia, Iron metabolism, Precision medicine, Iron deficiency, Chronic disease anemia, Ferroportin