What is the role of liver in iron homeostasis?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Iron Homeostasis**: Iron homeostasis refers to the regulation of iron levels in the body to maintain a balance between iron intake, storage, and utilization. The liver plays a crucial role in this process.

2. **Iron Storage**: The liver stores excess iron in the form of ferritin, a protein that binds iron. This stored iron can be released into the bloodstream when the body needs it, ensuring that there is a sufficient supply for processes such as hemoglobin production in red blood cells.

3. **Regulation of Iron Levels**: The liver produces a hormone called hepcidin, which is key in regulating iron levels in the body. When iron levels are high, hepcidin production increases, reducing iron absorption from the intestine and promoting iron storage in the liver. Conversely, when iron levels are low, hepcidin levels decrease, allowing more iron to be absorbed from food and released from storage.

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