What is the target tissue of erythropoietin (EPO)?

Erythropoietin (EPO) primarily targets the bone marrow, where it stimulates the production of red blood cells (RBCs). When the kidneys sense low oxygen levels in the blood, they produce more EPO, which travels through the bloodstream to the bone marrow, enhancing the differentiation of progenitor cells into mature RBCs, thus increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Interestingly, the discovery of EPO dates back to the 1970s, when scientists were on a mission to understand how the body responds to oxygen levels. Their research not only illuminated the role of EPO in red cell formation but also led to the development of synthetic versions for treating conditions like anemia, showcasing the fascinating interplay between our body's needs and medical advancements.