EPO is a vital, naturally occurring protein produced by kidneys. Its job is essential: keeping your red blood cell count exactly where it needs to be.
What is Primary Function of EPO?
The main function of erythropoietin is erythropoiesis, which is medical term for production of red blood cells (RBCs).
It doesn’t build cells, it gives signal to bone marrow. Without this signal, your body wouldn’t produce enough RBCs to carry oxygen to your tissues, leading to fatigue and organ failure.
How it Works
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Detection: Specialized cells in kidneys monitor amount of oxygen in your blood.
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Release: If oxygen levels drop (due to high altitude, blood loss, or lung disease), kidneys ramp up production of EPO.
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Stimulation: EPO travels through bloodstream tobone marrow.
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Production: In marrow, EPO binds to receptor cells, tell them to transform into mature red blood cells.
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Balance: Once RBC levels rise and oxygen delivery returns to normal, kidneys slow down EPO production.
| Feature | Description |
| Origin | Mainly Kidneys (and a small amount in Liver) |
| Target | Bone Marrow |
| Main Goal | Increase Red Blood Cell (RBC) production |
| Trigger | Low oxygen levels (Hypoxia) |
| Medical Use | Treating Anemia and Kidney Disease |