Beneficial and ominous aspects of the pleiotropic action of erythropoietin

摘要: The primary function of the glycoprotein hormone erythropoietin (Epo) is to promote red cell production by inhibiting apoptosis erythrocytic progenitors in hemopoietic tissues. However, functional Epo receptors (Epo-R) have recently been demonstrated various nonhemopoietic tissues indicating that a more pleiotropic viability and growth factor. Herein, vitro vivo effects brain cardiovascular system are reviewed. In addition, therapeutic impact oncology considered, including question whether might tumor growth. Convincing evidence available acts as neurotrophic neuroprotective factor brain. prevents neuronal cells from hypoxia-induced glutamate-induced death. Epo-R expressed neurons glia specific regions supports survival ischemic potential has already confirmed clinical trial on patients with acute stroke. With respect vasculature, both endothelial smooth muscle cells. promotes angiogenesis stimulates endothelin other vasoactive mediators. cardiomyocytes. role myocardial protectant at focus present research. therapy practiced primarily maintain hemoglobin concentration above transfusion trigger reduce fatigue. increased oxygenation may improve efficacy chemotherapy radiotherapy. often express Epo-R. Therefore, careful studies required fully exclude recombinant human (rHuEpo)