Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

A Comprehensive Pipeline to Assess the Efficiency of Human Erythropoiesis In Vitro and Ex Vivo
Published on: January 10, 2025
Erythropoietin in cancer: a dilemma in risk therapy
1Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden. yihai.cao@ki.se
Abstract:
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a frequently prescribed drug for treatment of cancer-related and chemotherapy-induced anemia in cancer patients. Paradoxically, recent preclinical and clinical studies indicate that EPO could potentially accelerate tumor growth and jeopardize survival in cancer patients. In this review I critically discuss the current knowledge and broad biological functions of EPO in association with tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis. The emphasis is focused on discussing the complex interplay between EPO and other tumor-derived factors in angiogenesis, tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Understanding the multifarious functions of EPO and its reciprocal relation with other signaling pathways is crucial for developing more effective agents for cancer therapy and for minimizing risks for cancer patients.
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