Studies on Iron Absorption. I. The Relationships Between the Rate of Erythropoiesis, Hypoxia and Iron Absorption

Abstract

Abstract (1) Evidence is presented that the augmentation of iron absorption from the gastro-intestinal tract produced by hypoxia can occur independently of acceleration of erythropoiesis. (2) It is demonstrated that the hormone erythropoietin is capable of enhancing iron absorption; and that this property of erythropoietin is indirect, being dependent on acceleration of erythropoiesis. (3) An experimental model for the study of those factors that affect iron absorption and are independent of increased red cell production is presented.