Video - Erythropoietin

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that regulates the production of red blood cells. EPO is produced by kidney cells, and can be deficient in individuals with chronic kidney diseases, resulting in reduced production of red blood cells, thus anemia.

EPO is made in response to low oxygen levels in the tissues. It signals the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, which helps to increase oxygen delivery to tissues. EPO is also used as a doping agent in endurance sports because it can improve performance by increasing the amount of oxygen that is delivered to muscles. EPO doping has been reported to have negative health effects, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.