Effects of erythropoietin on ICAM-1 and PECAM-1 expressions on human umbilical vein endothelial cells subjected to oxidative stress

The protective effect of erythropoietin (Epo) is based on its ability to reduce oxidation and to stabilize the cells. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of Epo on malonyl dialdehyde (MDA), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) (CD54) and platelet–endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1) (CD31) levels on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) stimulated by tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). HUVECs were incubated with Epo (10–40 IU ml⁻¹) or TNF‐α (10–40 ng ml⁻¹) alone or preincubated with Epo (20 IU ml⁻¹) and subsequently stimulated with TNF‐α (10–40 ng ml⁻¹). MDA concentrations were measured using the high‐performance liquid chromatography, whereas ICAM‐1 and PECAM‐1 expressions were evaluated by flow cytometry. Incubation with Epo resulted in a decrease in MDA and the increased expressions of ICAM‐1 and PECAM‐1. Exposure to TNF‐α reflected an increase in MDA, ICAM‐1 and PECAM‐1 levels. These changes were inhibited by preincubation with Epo. The cytoprotective activity proven in this study points to new applications and therapeutic possibilities for Epo. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.