Is there a role for erythropoietin in cardiovascular disease?

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD: Despite the advances in the cardiovascular field, cardiovascular diseases remain an important health problem with a high mortality rate. Novel therapeutic attempts that target myocardial ischemia and heart failure offer attractive adjuncts and/or alternatives to commonly employed regimens. The development of novel laboratory technologies over the last decade has led to substantial progress in bringing new therapies to the bedside. AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW: Current experimental and clinical trials in the use of erythropoietin (EPO) in cardiovascular diseases are reviewed. WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN: This review will widen knowledge of the therapeutic potential of EPO's non-erythropoietic beneficial effects in a clinical cardiovascular setting. TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Results from preclinical trials regarding the non-erythropoietic effects of erythropoietin are really encouraging. Further clinical studies are warranted to define the beneficial role of EPO in the clinical setting of coronary artery disease, heart failure and peripheral artery disease.