Glycoprotein hormones play a significant role in regulating the physiological activities of humans. Erythropoietin, also known as hemopoietin or hematopoietin, is one of the important glycoprotein hormones. This hormone serves as a cytokine for red blood cell generators in the bone marrow. Synthesized in the kidney, Erythropoietin governs the production of red blood cells. This article attempts to provide an in-depth insight into the synthesis and role of Erythropoietin.
The discovery of Erythropoietin dates back to the 1970s. Nephrologist Dr. Joseph W. Eschbach and Hematologist Dr. John Adamson were examining different types of kidney failures and the role of Erythropoietin in the production of erythrocyte. Being a natural hormone, Erythropoietin is synthesized in voluminous proportions in human body. However, their studies opened up newer avenues of research in relation to formation of red blood cells in bone marrow. Later on it helped the cause of anemia treatment.
The kidney cells that produce EPO are differentiated from other cells in terms of responsiveness. It's been scientifically proved that cells responsible for formulating Erythropoietin are extremely sensitive to reduced oxygen level in the blood. So oxygen is thrown into the blood whenever the kidney needs it. This process is a sort of relaying method wherein one act is complemented by another. EPO excites the bone marrow to make an increased number red cells so that the amount of oxygen level in blood steps up.
EPO happens to be the main resource of red blood cells.
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The prime functions of EPO are to highlight the distinction and growth of red blood cells and to contribute to the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a crucial component in red blood cells, responsible for transporting oxygen.
The EPO gene features in human chromosome 7. It might be noted that liver also synthesizes Erythropoietin, but to a lesser extent. Various types of DNA sequences surrounding the EPO gene act collectively to regulate the formulation of this hormone in the liver.
Quantitative evaluation of Erythropoietin is a must with regards to the treatment of kidney diseases and bone marrow disorders. Polycythemia refers to a disorder characterized by multiplication of red blood cells. EPO levels going past 19 mU/ml is a tell-tale sign of Polycythemia. In case of recurring kidney failures, levels of EPO drop off below normal proportion.
EPO has often been mishandled as a doping substance. Using this hormone as means to boost up the level of physical energy can backfire to the extent of fatality. It increases the chance of dehydration and may eventually lead to cardiac failures.
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