Additive effect of LPS and dietary iron on EPO-mediated hepcidin suppression. Hepatic hepcidin expression in control mice (CTL), mice treated with EPO alone (50 U for 4 days; EPO) and in combination with LPS (EPO + LPS), with CI-supplemented diet (EPO + CI), with both LPS and CI (EPO + LPS + CI), with LPS alone (LPS), and CI-supplemented diet alone (CI). Data are presented as means plus or minus SD with n = 6 mice per group. Statistical analysis was performed by 1-way ANOVA; *P < .05 for comparison with control mice.