EPO (Erythropoietin)

Erythropoietin, commonly known as EPO, is a hormone produced primarily by the kidneys. Its main role is to stimulate the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Red blood cells are crucial as they carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. EPO levels increase in response to low oxygen levels, helping to ensure that tissues receive adequate oxygen. While EPO is important for normal bodily functions, it has also gained attention in sports due to misuse for enhancing performance by increasing endurance through higher red blood cell counts.