RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Cellular Protection by Erythropoietin: New Therapeutic Implications? JF Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics JO J Pharmacol Exp Ther FD American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics SP 759 OP 762 DO 10.1124/jpet.107.127357 VO 323 IS 3 A1 M. Joyeux-Faure YR 2007 UL http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/323/3/759.abstract AB Erythropoietin (EPO), the principal hematopoietic hormone produced by the kidney and the liver in fetuses, regulates mammalian erythropoiesis and exhibits diverse cellular effects in nonhematopoietic tissues. The introduction of recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) has marked a significant advance in the management of anemia associated with chronic renal failure. At the same time, experimental studies have unveiled its potential neuroprotective and cardioprotective properties, occurring independently of its hematopoietic action. As with other cytoprotective agents, administration of exogenous rhEPO can confer cerebral and myocardial protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury in terms of reduction in cellular apoptosis and necrosis, as well as improvement in functional recovery. Very recent studies even suggest that this drug could have beneficial applications in oncology, protecting against chemotherapy cardiotoxicity. The purpose of this letter is to review current information regarding the various conditions in which rhEPO and its derivates could confer cellular protection. We also address clinical perspectives and novel therapeutic strategies that could be developed based on these studies. Thus, EPO seems to be a very promising agent for protecting cellular survival during both acute and chronic diseases, and its future should be considered with enthusiasm. The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics