Lecture 1: Haemopoiesis Flashcards
What is haemopoiesis?
The process of blood cell production, including erythropoiesis (RBCs), leucopoiesis (WBCs), and thrombopoiesis (platelets).
Where does haemopoiesis occur in adults?
Bone marrow of vertebrae, ribs, sternum, skull, sacrum, pelvis, and proximal femur.
What regulates haemopoiesis?
Growth factors (e.g., EPO, GM-CSF), cytokines, and environmental factors.
What is erythropoiesis?
Production of red blood cells (RBCs), regulated by erythropoietin (EPO).
Key steps in RBC development?
Blast cell → gradual size reduction → nucleus loss → reticulocyte → mature RBC.
What stimulates EPO release?
Low O₂ levels, defective cardiac/pulmonary function, or renal damage.
What is thrombopoiesis?
Platelet production, regulated by thrombopoietin (TPO).
Name granulocyte types.
Neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils (all derived from myeloid lineage).
What controls granulopoiesis?
IL-1, IL-3, GM-CSF, and M-CSF.
How do B and T cells differ in development?
B cells: Mature in bone marrow; produce immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, etc.).
T cells: Migrate to thymus; express CD4/CD8.
What cytokine is critical for lymphocyte development?
IL-7.
Why is bone marrow analysis performed?
Diagnose leukemia, myeloma, anemia, or infections; monitor treatment.
What is a normal myeloid/erythroid (M/E) ratio?
3:1 (WBC precursors > RBC precursors).
What stain is used for marrow aspirates?
Romanowsky stain (nuclei = red; ferric iron = blue).
What does flow cytometry detect in marrow?
CD markers (e.g., CD34 for stem cells; CD4/CD8 for T cells).
