Straighterline Anatomy and Physiology 2 Lab BIO202L Lab 10 Blood and the Heart Worksheet 2023/2024 Questions and Answers

Pre-Lab Questions: 1. Research the process of erythropoiesis, and explain the role erythropoietin plays. Why is this a popular “doping” drug for athletes? Erythropoiesis is the process of red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that stimulates this process, mainly produced in the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. Athletes misuse EPO as a "doping" drug because it increases red blood cell count, enhancing oxygen delivery to muscles and improving endurance. However, such use is prohibited and unsafe, as it can lead to severe health risks and potential complications. 2. How would the hemoglobin content differ in a person living in Philadelphia (Elevation: 39 feet) compared to someone living in Denver (Elevation: 5280 feet)? Why? The hemoglobin content in a person living in Denver (elevation: 5280 feet) would likely be higher than that of a person living in Philadelphia (elevation: 39 feet). This is because living at higher altitudes, such as Denver, leads to lower oxygen levels in the air. In response to the reduced oxygen availability, the body compensates by producing more hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood, to improve oxygen-carrying capacity and adaptation to the higher altitude conditions.