is a multifactorial process due to relative EPO deficiency, uremic-induced inhibitors of erythropoiesis, shortened erythrocyte survival, and disordered iron homeostasis. Recent work has identified hepcidin excess as a main contributor to the disordered iron homeostasis and anemia of CKD by impairing dietary iron absorption and iron mobilization from body stores. Improving our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying anemia of CKD holds promise for developing new pharmacologic agents that more closely target the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of this disease for improved efficacy and reduced treatment-related adverse outcomes.