Thrombopoietin

Definition

Thrombopoietin is a hormone produced primarily by the liver and kidneys that regulates the production of platelets by the bone marrow. It plays a crucial role in maintaining normal platelet counts in the bloodstream, which are essential for blood clotting and wound healing.

Related terms

Platelets: Small blood cells that help form clots to stop bleeding.

Bone marrow: The spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells, including platelets, are made.

Hemostasis: The process by which bleeding is stopped via blood clotting, involving platelets and clotting factors