Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells (erythrocytes). 

Functions: 

• Regulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell production)
• Increases oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood

Levels: 

• Normal range: 2.6-18.5 milliunits per milliliter (mU/mL)
• Elevated levels may indicate:
  • Kidney disease
  • Anemia
  • High altitude
• Low levels may indicate:
  • Kidney failure
  • Bone marrow disorders
  • Iron deficiency

Medical Uses: 

• Treatment of anemia caused by chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy, or HIV 

Synthetic EPO (epoetin alfa or beta) is used as a medication 

Mechanism of Action: 

• EPO binds to receptors on erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow 

This stimulates cell division and differentiation into mature red blood cells