The function of Ensembl gene identifier ENSG00000105697 (HAMP, hepcidin antimicrobial peptide) is as follows. Liver-produced hormone that constitutes the main circulating regulator of iron absorption and distribution across tissues. Acts by promoting endocytosis and degradation of ferroportin/SLC40A1, leading to the retention of iron in iron-exporting cells and decreased flow of iron into plasma (PubMed:22682227, PubMed:29237594, PubMed:32814342). Controls the major flows of iron into plasma: absorption of dietary iron in the intestine, recycling of iron by macrophages, which phagocytose old erythrocytes and other cells, and mobilization of stored iron from hepatocytes (PubMed:22306005). {ECO:0000269|PubMed:22306005, ECO:0000269|PubMed:22682227, ECO:0000269|PubMed:29237594, ECO:0000269|PubMed:32814342}. Has strong antimicrobial activity against E.coli ML35P N.cinerea and weaker against S.epidermidis, S.aureus and group b streptococcus bacteria. Active against the fungus C.albicans. No activity against P.aeruginosa (PubMed:11034317, PubMed:11113131). .