If the red cell were a sphere, the much lower surface area would prevent it from deforming.Ĭellular viscosity, which is determined by intracellular hemoglobin and water content, also regulates cellular deformability. The high surface area allows the red cell to undergo extensive shape changes without damage. This shape allows it to possess enough volume (90 fL) to contain sufficient hemoglobin for its oxygen-carrying function, and enough surface area (approximately 140 μm 2) to allow deformability. SRP The red cell achieves its deformity through its unique shape, the structural characteristics and composition of the red cell membrane, and the viscosity of the contents of the cell. H&O What characteristics do red cells require in order to accomplish this deformation? In fact, this is the mechanism by which aging red cells-which can no longer flex like their younger counterparts-are selectively removed from the circulation.
Failure to achieve this deformation results in damage to red cells and their removal from the circulation by the spleen. Thus, the erythrocyte must be able to undergo extensive deformation safely and reversibly without fragmenting. It must, however, squeeze through capillaries that are only 3 μm wide and through slits in the reticuloendothelial system that are only 0.5 to 1 μm wide. SRP The red cell is approximately 8 μm in diameter when circulating through large vessels.
H&O What challenges do red cells face as they pass through the capillaries? This is part 1 of a 3-part series on the red cell membrane.
Clinical Advances in Hematology & OncologyĪugust 2014, Volume 12, Issue 8 Sant-Rayn Pasricha, MBBS, MPH, PhD, FRACP, FRCPA, NHMRC CJ Martin Early Career Fellow, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom and School of Population and Global Health Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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