HAMP and anemia: The liver also is the major organ that produces hepcidin, an iron-regulating hormone, which is expressed in a high inflammatory state as well as iron-rich state, which blocks the absorption of iron by enterocytes [37]. Anemia is a condition that occurs due to lower production of healthy red blood cells or lower levels of hemoglobin and often is caused by iron deficiency, or B12 and folate deficiency [38].