Erythropoietin
Erythropoietin is a haemopoietic glycoprotein growth factor derived from a single gene on chromosome seven which is expressed in cells of the renal cortex. Some 10% is produced by the liver by unknown cells; this amount is not enough for normal functioning. Its key action is to control erythropoiesis. (1)
Normally erythropoietin is produced as a result hypoxia detected by an oxygen sensor; it then acts back on an effector receptor. There is normally a rise in levels in anaemia.
Recombinant erythropoietin is clinically useful in a range of conditions including chronic renal failure. It must be grown in mammalian cell lines so that proper glycosylation can occur.
Notes:
- there are concerns about using erythopoietin in patients with cancer:
- study evidence revealed that erythropoiesis-stimulating agent administration to patients with cancer is associated with increased risks of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and mortality (2)
Reference:
- Jelkmann W. Erythropoietin. Front Horm Res. 2016;47:115-27
- Bennett CL et al. Venous thromboembolism and mortality associated with recombinant erythropoietin and darbepoetin administration for the treatment of cancer-associated anemia. JAMA. 2008 Feb 27;299(8):914-24
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