I know that EPO causes an increase in the number of red blood cells, so for a higher oxygen uptake and therefore for performance improvement. But how can scientists find out from a few samples that synthetic EPO has been administered?
Answer
Dear Joos
EPO stands for erythropoietin. EPO is a glycoprotein (MG : 33,400 Da) mainly produced by the kidney (also partly in the liver for 10.15%). The production of EPO by the kidney is regulated by the tissue O2-tension. When the partial O2voltage drops, EPO secretion rises, CFU . number increasesE‘s up, differentiate these CFU E‘s are located in erythroblasts (normoblasts) and then in RBC.
Deficient renal production of EPO results in anemia. The EPO is the fundamental stimulus of erythropoietic control. Secondary influences on erythropoiesis are exerted by certain endocrine glands. The normal value of EPO in serum is 30 mU/ml. Detection of EPO in serum is mainly done via immunological techniques such as RIA and ELISA using monoclonal antibodies.
A few years ago, the gene for EPO was successfully cloned and a recombinant human EPO can be made industrially. This rHuEPO already has a number of important applications, including treatment of anemia due to chronic renal insufficiency. The difference between the endogenous and recombinant EPO lies in the migration of EPO on a gel. The body’s own and the synthesized EPO will show a different migration distance.
Kind regards
Anneleen Cottyn
Answered by
Mrs. Celine Christiaens
Molecular Biology/Biology/Chemistry
Marksesteenweg 58 B-8500 Kortrijk
http://www.howest.be
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