Effect of Erythropoietin and Oxygen Tension on in vitro Synthesis of Hemoglobin A and F by Adult Human Bone Marrow.∗

Summary Hemoglobin F and A synthesis was studied in in vitro suspensions of normal adult human bone marrow. Hb A synthesis continued throughout the 7 2-hour period whereas Hb F synthesis ceased after 24 hours. Erythropoietin, added in vitro, stimulated total hemoglobin synthesis without affecting Hb F synthesis. Hypoxia depressed total globin synthesis without affecting Hb F synthesis. Thus the synthesis of Hb A and F appears to respond independently to environmental stimuli.