Haemopoiesis, also known as hematopoiesis, is the process through which new blood cells are formed, developed, and matured in the body. It is a crucial physiological process that occurs in the bone marrow, where stem cells differentiate into various types of blood cells.
The term 'haemopoiesis' is derived from two Greek words: "haima," meaning blood, and "poiesis," meaning making or formation. This process is responsible for the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes).
In the bone marrow, haemopoiesis begins with pluripotent stem cells, also known as hematopoietic stem cells. These stem cells have the remarkable ability to self-renew and differentiate into different cell lineages. Depending on the body's requirements, these stem cells can give rise to myeloid or lymphoid progenitor cells.
The myeloid progenitor cells further differentiate into red blood cells, platelets, and certain types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and macrophages. On the other hand, lymphoid progenitor cells give rise to lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in the immune system.
Haemopoiesis is a tightly regulated process that is controlled by various growth factors and cytokines, including erythropoietin, thrombopoietin, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and others. Any disruption or imbalance in haemopoiesis can lead to severe blood disorders such as anemia, leukemia, or immune deficiencies.
Overall, haemopoiesis is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of blood
