The main contributions of a Romanian team, headed by I. Baciu, in the field of the control of erythropoiesis are presented. The role of the central nervous system in the regulation of erythrocytes production and the identification of chemoreceptors sensitive to hypoxia in the central nervous system are disclosed. The studies concerning the secretion and the effects of erythropoietin are also emphasized. The paper provided references to the recent data concerning the structure of erythropoietin, the membrane receptors, the metabolism and the practical applications of the hormone.