eritropoeesi

Eritropoesi is the process by which red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, are produced. This vital physiological function occurs primarily in the bone marrow of adults. The process begins with pluripotent stem cells, which differentiate into various hematopoietic progenitor cells. These progenitor cells then mature through several stages, including the proerythroblast, basophilic erythroblast, polychromatophilic erythroblast, orthochromatophilic erythroblast, and reticulocyte, before finally becoming a mature erythrocyte.

Eritropoesi is tightly regulated by the hormone erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is mainly produced by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood, a condition called hypoxia. When oxygen levels decrease, the kidneys release more EPO, which then travels to the bone marrow and stimulates the production of red blood cells. Conversely, when oxygen levels are sufficient, EPO production is suppressed, slowing down red blood cell formation.

Other factors also influence eritropoeesi, including iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, which are essential nutrients for red blood cell synthesis. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells or a lower than normal amount of hemoglobin. The regulation of eritropoeesi ensures that the body has an adequate supply of oxygen-carrying red blood cells to meet its metabolic demands.