ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceHard
A patient is diagnosed with a condition affecting the production of red blood cells. The physician explains that a hormone produced primarily by the kidneys plays a crucial role in stimulating this process. Which hormone is being referred to?
- AAldosterone
- BErythropoietin
- CRenin
- DCalcitriol
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Erythropoietin
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone primarily produced by the kidneys in response to hypoxia (low oxygen levels). It stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells (erythropoiesis), thus increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates sodium and potassium balance, not red blood cell production.
- C. Renin is an enzyme produced by the kidneys that regulates blood pressure, not red blood cell production.
- D. Calcitriol (active vitamin D) is involved in calcium and phosphate absorption, influenced by the kidneys but not directly stimulating RBC production.
Erythropoietin (EPO)
A hormone produced primarily by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells (erythropoiesis) in the bone marrow.
- Released in response to hypoxia.
- Increases oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
- Used clinically to treat anemia.
Memory trick: EPO makes 'red' cells 'grow'.