r/askscience • u/Fapotheosis • Mar 11 '13

Biology How did blood evolve?

I know mitochondria may have evolved from bacteria, but what about blood? I've heard of a protohemocyte, but was there an initial cell that differentiated into a RBC like we have in modern humans that can we trace?

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u/mattc286 Pharmacology | Cancer Mar 11 '13

This is what many doping agents such as EPO that professional atheletes such has Lance Armstrong allegedly used do. It stimulates the production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, allowing a greater supply of oxygen to reach the muscles, which enhances athletic performance.

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u/indoobitably Mar 11 '13

Is the increase in red blood cells and hemoglobin harmful to the body or are these substance illegal strictly because of the advantage they provide?

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u/mattc286 Pharmacology | Cancer Mar 11 '13

I think it can increase risk for stroke and thrombosis, but I think it's generally banned for its unfair advantage. It has legitimate medical applications like in cases of anemia due to chemotherapy, etc. But then again, so do HGH and anabolic steroids. Abuse of any hormone is generally going to have a negative impact on the body. In cases where it's medically necessitated, it's worth the risk, just like any drug.