Sustained submicromolar H2O2 levels induce hepcidin via signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)

Abstract

Background: Hepcidin, the systemic iron regulator, is induced during inflammation and leads to low circulating and increased intracellular iron levels. Results: (Patho)physiologically relevant H2O2 levels up-regulate hepcidin via STAT3 in cultured liver cells. Conclusion: Intracellular and extracellular H2O2 acts similarly to IL-6 on hepcidin up-regulation and requires a functional STAT3-binding site. Significance: H 2O2 is an important link between inflammation and iron metabolism. © 2012 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.