Hämoglobinproduktion

Hämoglobinproduktion, also known as erythropoiesis, is the process by which red blood cells are formed. This vital process primarily occurs in the bone marrow of adults. It begins with pluripotent stem cells that differentiate into red blood cell precursors. These precursors undergo several stages of maturation, during which they synthesize hemoglobin, the protein responsible for oxygen transport in the blood.

The production of hemoglobin requires specific nutrients, most notably iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid. Iron is essential for the heme group of hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen. Vitamin B12 and folic acid are crucial for DNA synthesis, a necessary component for cell division and maturation during erythropoiesis.

The rate of hämoglobinproduktion is regulated by erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone produced mainly by the kidneys. When oxygen levels in the blood decrease, the kidneys release more EPO, which stimulates the bone marrow to increase the production of red blood cells and consequently hemoglobin. Conversely, when oxygen levels are high, EPO production is suppressed.

Mature red blood cells, packed with hemoglobin, are released from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. They circulate for approximately 120 days before being removed by the spleen and liver. The breakdown products of hemoglobin are then recycled, with iron being reused for new hämoglobinproduktion. This continuous cycle ensures a constant supply of oxygen-carrying capacity for the body's tissues. Disruptions in hämoglobinproduktion can lead to various anemias, characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.