Hepcidin protects against lipopolysaccharide-induced liver injury in a mouse model of obstructive jaundice

► We examined the recombinant hepcidin is effective in alleviating cholestasis-induced liver injury and mortality in mice with superimposed sepsis. ► Hepcidin pretreatment significantly reduced hepatic proinflammatory cytokine expression and liver injury in obstructive jaundice mice receiving LPS. ► Enhanced autophagy and reduced apoptosis may account for the protective effects of hepcidin.