Combined use of gdf traps and erythropoietin receptor activators to increase red blood cell levels

Abstract

In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for increasing red blood cell and/or hemoglobin levels in vertebrates, including rodents and primates, and particularly in humans.

1 - 25 . (canceled) 
     
     
         26 . A method for treating anemia in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an ActRII fusion protein comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38 and epoetin alfa. 
     
     
         27 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with a kidney disorder. 
     
     
         28 . The method of  claim 27 , wherein the anemia is associated with chronic kidney disease. 
     
     
         29 . The method of  claim 27 , wherein the anemia is associated with acute kidney disease. 
     
     
         30 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with a chemotherapy treatment. 
     
     
         31 . The polypeptide for use according to  claim 30 , wherein the chemotherapy treatment is treatment with a taxane. 
     
     
         32 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is as a consequence of blood loss. 
     
     
         33 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with a myelodysplastic syndrome. 
     
     
         34 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with multiple myeloma. 
     
     
         35 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with a thalassemia. 
     
     
         36 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with sickle cell disease. 
     
     
         37 . The method of  claim 26 , wherein the anemia is associated with a hemoglobinopathy.