Not available outside of the UK & Ireland.

Analysis Note

The biological acitivity is measured by its ability to stimulate cell proliferation using TF-1 cell line.

Biochem/physiol Actions

EPO (erythropoietin) plays an essential role in the growth and differentiation of erythrocyte progenitor cells. It is involved in the pathogenesis of myomatous erythrocytosis syndrome, which is characterized by erythrocytosis and myomatous uterus. It acts as a ligand for a homodimer of EPO-receptor (Epo-R), which is localized to the surface of immature erythroid cells. This interaction leads to inhibition of apoptosis and facilitation of cell proliferation and differentiation to mature erythrocytes.

Erythropoietin is a glycoprotein that is the principal regulator of red blood cell growth and differentiation.

General description

EPO (erythropoietin) gene is localized to human chromosome 7q22. This protein is predominantly produced by the cortex cells of kidney, as well as a variety of tissues including female reproductive organs. It is a glycoprotein, which has a molecular weight of 34kDa. It is produced as a 193-amino acid precursor protein, which is cleaved to produce a secreted protein of 166-amino acid.

Physical form

Lyophilized from a 0.2 µm filtered solution in phosphate buffered saline containing 0.5 mg bovine serum albumin.