Potential Use of Red Blood Stimulating Hormones to Support Military Activities at High Altitude

Abstract

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a biotechnology product in the form of a protein-based hormone that is widely used to stimulate the formation of red blood cells in the body. These biotechnology-based products have not been utilized optimally to support the performance of soldiers in both military operations and non-military activities. In fact, the ability of EPO to increase the level of red blood cells in the body so that they capture more oxygen can be useful for military personnel when on duty in extreme geographical conditions, for example in mountainous areas or at certain altitudes where oxygen levels are minimal. The characteristics of EPO that need to be stored under certain conditions are a challenge for researchers to develop the next generation of EPO that is stable and resistant to conventional storage conditions. This innovation in the form of the idea of using an erythropoietin biotechnology product is a contribution to the field of defense technology in order to provide concise and effective technology that can support the activities and performance of soldiers in areas with minimal oxygen.