Smad6 and Smad7 are co-regulated with hepcidin in mouse models of iron overload

► Smad6, Smad7 and hepcidin are co-regulated in response to iron via Bmp/Smad-pathway. ► Hemochromatosis mouse models show inappropriately low hepcidin, Smad6 and Smad7 levels. ► Iron injections activate hepcidin, Smad6 and Smad7 mRNA levels despite the lack of Hfe. ► Bmp/Smad-independent signals may convey hepcidin, Smad6 and Smad7 response to iron.