Ferroportin

Ferroportin is a protein found in cells that helps regulate iron levels in the body. It acts as a gateway on the surface of certain cells, such as those in the intestines and liver, allowing iron to exit these cells and enter the bloodstream. This process is crucial for maintaining proper iron balance, which is essential for making hemoglobin in red blood cells and supporting overall energy production. Ferroportin's activity is controlled by the hormone hepcidin; when iron levels are high, hepcidin reduces ferroportin activity to prevent excess iron from accumulating.