Erythropoiesis

Definition

Erythropoiesis is the process by which red blood cells (erythrocytes) are produced in the bone marrow. It is regulated by erythropoietin, a hormone primarily produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in tissues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nutritional factors such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate are critical for effective erythropoiesis.
2. Impaired erythropoiesis can lead to anemia, characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
3. Chronic diseases like kidney disease can disrupt erythropoiesis due to reduced production of erythropoietin.
4. Erythropoiesis involves multiple stages of cell differentiation starting from hematopoietic stem cells.
5. Adequate protein intake is essential for the synthesis of hemoglobin during erythropoiesis.

Review Questions

• What role does iron play in erythropoiesis?
• How does chronic kidney disease affect erythropoiesis?
• Which vitamins are crucial for the maturation of red blood cells?

Related terms

Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Anemia:

A condition where there is a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, often resulting from impaired erythropoiesis.

Erythropoietin:

A hormone produced mainly by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production in response to low oxygen levels.