Endocrine Abstracts

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone produced in kidneys in response to tissue hypoxia and is the main regulator of red blood cell (RBC) production in the body as well. New studies show the effects of EPO on immune system. In this study the antihuman leukocyte (anti-HLA) antibody titer were determined in five groups of rats, which were sensitized with human lymphocyte. Also, the effects of stimulation’s frequency and dose of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) on anti-HLA antibody titer were studied. Two groups of rats received 20 and 100 IU/Kg rHuEPO respectively, after twice sensitization with human lymphocyte. The other two groups were given 20 and 100 IU/Kg rHuEPO, but after three times sensitization with human lymphocyte. Control group did not receive rHuEPO. Microlymphocytotoxicity method was used to detect anti-HLA antibodies. The results show that the anti-HLA antibody titer has been decreased significantly compared to control group. This statistically significant decrease was seen in groups which received 100 IU/Kg rHuEPO and also in those which received 20 IU/Kg after 2 antigenic stimulations. This could be due to the effects of rHuEPO on the number or the activity of B cells and T cells. Moreover, the dose of rHuEPO, length of treatment and the level of sensitization with human lymphocyte might affect anti-HLA antibody titer.