Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Erythropoietin is primarily responsible for regulating the formation and development of red blood cells (RBCs). This glycoprotein hormone is produced mainly by the kidneys in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. It stimulates erythropoiesis, the process by which the bone marrow produces RBCs. When oxygen levels decrease, erythropoietin levels increase, leading to an uptick in RBC production, which helps to restore adequate oxygen delivery to tissues.

The other substances listed play different roles in the body. Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) primarily stimulates the production of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which are crucial for immune responses. Platelet growth factor is involved in the regulation of platelet production and repair processes but does not have a direct role in red blood cell formation. Monoclonal antibodies are engineered proteins that can target specific antigens and are primarily used in targeted therapies for various diseases, including cancers, rather than in the regulation of erythropoiesis.