Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone essential for red blood cell production and a cornerstone therapy for anemia, particularly in chronic kidney disease. Beyond hematopoiesis, EPO exerts pleiotropic effects on metabolism, neuroprotection, and tissue regeneration. This review summarizes current insights into the molecular mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and clinical applications of recombinant human EPO (rHuEPO) and its analogs, with emphasis on personalized therapeutic strategies. Emerging evidence highlights both therapeutic opportunities and risks, including resistance, cardiovascular complications, and misuse in sports doping. Advances in detection methods, pharmacogenomics, and the development of novel agents such as HIF-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors are discussed, underscoring the expanding role of EPO in precision medicine.