Hematopoietic

Hematopoietic refers to the process of blood cell formation, which occurs in the bone marrow. The term comes from the Greek words "haima" meaning "blood" and "poiesis" meaning "to make". Hematopoiesis is a vital process that ensures the continual supply of new blood cells throughout an individual's life.

Process of Hematopoiesis

Hematopoiesis begins with a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC), which is a type of cell that has the ability to differentiate into any type of blood cell. These HSCs are multipotent, meaning they can give rise to several different cell types.

The process of hematopoiesis involves several stages of differentiation and maturation, which are regulated by a variety of growth factors and cytokines. These factors influence the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of blood cells.

Types of Blood Cells

There are three main types of blood cells that are produced through hematopoiesis:

• Red blood cells (RBCs), also known as erythrocytes, are responsible for carrying oxygen to the tissues.
• White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are part of the immune system and help to fight off infections.
• Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are involved in blood clotting.

Disorders of Hematopoiesis

Disorders of hematopoiesis can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including anemia, leukemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes. These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic mutations, infections, and exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.

Treatment

Treatment for disorders of hematopoiesis depends on the specific condition and its severity. Treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplantation, and immunotherapy.

See Also

• Hematology
• Bone marrow
• Stem cell

References

Hematopoietic Resources
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