European journal of clinical investigation
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The major physiological function of erythropoietin (EPO) is thought to be the induction of erythropoiesis. However, a growing body of evidence indicates that EPO as well as recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) and its analogues have tissue-protective effects and prevent tissue damage during ischaemia. This mini review summarizes the present knowledge on protective vascular effects of EPO and discusses the potential underlying mechanisms.