Vörösvértesttermelés

Vörösvértesttermelés, also known as erythropoiesis, is the process by which red blood cells are produced. This vital biological function primarily occurs in the bone marrow of mammals. The process begins with hematopoietic stem cells, which are multipotent cells capable of differentiating into all blood cell types. These stem cells undergo a series of developmental stages, becoming increasingly specialized until they mature into functional erythrocytes, or red blood cells.

The production of red blood cells is tightly regulated, with the hormone erythropoietin (EPO) playing a crucial role. EPO is mainly produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. When oxygen levels decrease, the kidneys release more EPO, stimulating the bone marrow to increase red blood cell production. Conversely, when oxygen levels are sufficient, EPO production is suppressed, and red blood cell production slows down.

Mature red blood cells are anucleated, meaning they lack a nucleus and most organelles, which maximizes their capacity for carrying oxygen. Their primary function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and to carry carbon dioxide, a waste product, back to the lungs to be expelled. The lifespan of a red blood cell is approximately 120 days, after which they are removed from circulation and broken down, primarily in the spleen and liver. The iron released from the breakdown of red blood cells is then recycled for the production of new erythrocytes.