[Erythropoietin as a protective agent in myocardial ischemia].

Erythropoietin and its receptor, a cytokine hormone long-known for its pro-erythropoietic effect, has been found to be expressed on a variety of tissues, including the cardiovascular system. Recent experimental studies in the ischemia-reperfusion model have demonstrated that erythropoietin has a significant cardioprotective and pro-angiogenic effect. This effect is quantified by a reduction in the relative infarct and apoptosis area and improved recovery of mechanical function. Despite potentially detrimental effects, erythropoietin has been used extensively in the last decade for treatment of anemia associated with chronic renal failure, and it has been found to be a safe drug in humans. The potential role of erythropoietin in the treatment of ischemic heart disease in humans has yet to be demonstrated in preliminary clinical trials.