Erythropoiesis stimulation in acute ischemic syndromes.
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hematopoietic hormone with extensive nonhematopoietic properties. The discovery of an EPO receptor outside the hematopoietic system has fuelled research into the beneficial effects of EPO for various conditions, predominantly in cardiovascular disease. Experimental evidence has revealed the cytoprotective properties of EPO, and it seems that the EPO-EPO receptor system provides a powerful backbone against acute myocardial ischemia, gaining from the different properties of EPO. There is an ongoing discussion about possible discrepancy between preclinical and clinical effects of EPO on the cardiovascular system. Large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials are underway to give a final verdict on EPO treatment for acute coronary syndromes.
Ruifrok
Willem-Peter T
WP
Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands. w.t.ruifrok@thorax.umcg.nl
Lipsic
Erik
E
de Boer
Rudolf A
RA
van Gilst
Wiek H
WH
van Veldhuisen
Dirk J
DJ
D054058:Acute Coronary Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology*; D000208:Acute Disease; D000740:Anemia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004920:Erythropoiesis; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology; D015425:Myocardial Reperfusion; D017467:Receptors, Erythropoietin / Q000096:biosynthesis; D013577:Syndrome
D017467:Receptors, Erythropoietin; D004921:Erythropoietin