Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hypoxia-inducible hormone best known for its role in erythropoiesis. However, EPO also has anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective characteristics in multiple organs as summarised in this review. In the brain, EPO is upregulated by hypoxia, regulates ventilation and plays a key role in neuroprotection and neuroplasticity. Systemically administered EPO crosses the blood-brain-barrier, enhances neuroplasticity and improves cognitive functions in several disorders of the brain. Given this evidence, a trial is being planned to investigate whether EPO can improve the physiologic and neurologic outcome of COVID-19.
Bidragets oversatte titel | Erythropoietin as possible treatment of brain diseases |
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Originalsprog | Dansk |
Tidsskrift | Ugeskrift for Laeger |
Vol/bind | 182 |
Udgave nummer | 44 |
ISSN | 0041-5782 |
Status | Udgivet - 26 okt. 2020 |
Emneord
- Betacoronavirus
- Brain/metabolism
- Brain Diseases/drug therapy
- Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
- Erythropoietin/therapeutic use
- Humans
- Pandemics
- Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy