Hematopoiesis

Today's Medical Topic:  Hematopoiesis

Today we are looking at the creation or synthesis of blood cells, also known as hematopoiesis.  For the sake of my A&P class and the fact that I have no intention of becoming a hematologist we are simplifying the process and skipping one or more tertiary stages of the genesis.

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KEY:
IL = interleukin
GM = granulocyte/monocyte
CSF = colony stimulating factor
EPO = erythropoietin

So we have eight final products that we are interested in.  All of them are evolving from the the pluripotent hematopoietic stem cell which is a differentiated stem cell.  This cell may also be referred to as a "self renewal" cell.  

All cells differentiate based on the interleukins and/or granulocyte/monocyte colony-stimulating factors introduced to the precursor cells.

As you can see from the diagram the two major precursor cells are the lymphoid stem cell from which the lymphocytes are generated and the myeloid stem cell from which granulocytes. monocytes, and erythrocytes are generated.

Memorize that diagram for the quiz on Monday and you'll be sound as a pound.

Send questions or comments to dudaday@gmail.com

Disclaimer:  I am not a health care provider, any information presented in this blog should not be considered advice it is mearly an outlet to slake my curiosity.  You should always consult your primary medical provider for any concerns or illness.  Unlike Tylenol, I am not approved by the FDA or American Medical Association to treat or provide relief for any ailment.