Is the β Common Receptor the Key Molecule for the Protective Effect of Erythropoietin?

Erythropoietin is generally assumed to have protective effects against multiple diseases, especially ischemic stroke, and myocardial infarctions. The theory behind Erythropoietin’s (EPO) protective effects has been misconstrued in the scientific community to a degree, with assumptions made that the β common receptor (βcR) in the heteroreceptor EPO receptor (EPOR)/βcR is responsible for these protective effects. Our purpose with this opinion article is to convey our concern for the general assumption of the importance of βcR in EPO’s protective effect and to emphasize the necessity of further research in this field.