Hepcidin plays a central role in iron metabolism and availability for erythropoiesis. When levels are elevated, intestinal iron absorption is diminished and release of stored reticuloendothelial system iron is blocked. The net effect is reduced iron availability for erythropoiesis. RBC, red blood cell. Republished with permission of the American Society of Nephrology from Babitt et al² ; permission conveyed through Copyright Clearance Center, Inc.