Hepcidin is a protein that in humans is encoded by the HAMP gene.

The product encoded by this gene is involved in the maintenance of iron homeostasis, and it is necessary for the regulation of iron storage in macrophages, and for intestinal iron absorption. The preproprotein is post-translationally cleaved into mature peptides of 20, 22 and 25 amino acids, and these active peptides are rich in cysteines, which form intramolecular bonds that stabilize their beta-sheet structures. These peptides exhibit antimicrobial activity. Mutations in this gene cause hemochromatosis type 2B, also known as juvenile hemochromatosis, a disease caused by severe iron overload that results in cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, and endocrine failure. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]. Publication Note: This RefSeq record includes a subset of the publications that are available for this gene. Please see the Gene record to access additional publications.
Function: Seems to act as a signaling molecule involved in the maintenance of iron homeostasis. Seems to be required in conjunction with HFE to regulate both intestinal iron absorption and iron storage in macrophages (By similarity) .

Function: 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.