Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
Understanding Pathophysiology, 6e
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780323354097
Author: Sue E. Huether RN PhD, Kathryn L. McCance RN PhD
Publisher: Elsevier Science
Question
Book Icon
Chapter 20.1, Problem 1QC
Summary Introduction

To explain: The unique properties of erythrocyte’s shape.

Concept introduction: Erythrocytes (Red blood cells-RBC) are involved in the transport of oxygen to the cells. The cytoplasm of RBC is rich in the hemoglobin. The prefix heme- is the iron-containing pigment and globin is the protein part.

Expert Solution & Answer
Check Mark

Explanation of Solution

Erythrocytes are responsible for the oxygenation of tissues. Erythrocytes contain a distinctive protein called hemoglobin that carries gases and electrolytes through the plasma membrane of the cell. In the human, the mature erythrocytes lack a nucleus and cytoplasmic organelles like mitochondria. The size and shape of the erythrocyte are unique as it is well-suited to its function. Its main function is a gaseous exchange. Erythrocytes are small and disk-shaped. The unique properties of the erythrocyte’s shape are as follows:

  • A biconcave shape
  • Cell deformity
  • Stability

A biconcave shape provides an extra surface area or the volume ratio that allows the change of in the shape without increasing the surface area of the erythrocytes. It optimizes the gaseous diffusion and flow of blood in the large vessels. The deformability of erythrocytes is its ability to change the shape under the stress conditions. They change its shape under the influence of mechanical forces that can pass through a microcirculation. Thus, it promotes the mechanical stability of erythrocytes especially when they are passed through the capillary network.

Want to see more full solutions like this?

Subscribe now to access step-by-step solutions to millions of textbook problems written by subject matter experts!
Knowledge Booster
Background pattern image
Recommended textbooks for you
Text book image
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:PEARSON
Text book image
Biology 2e
Biology
ISBN:9781947172517
Author:Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi, Mary Ann Clark
Publisher:OpenStax
Text book image
Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781259398629
Author:McKinley, Michael P., O'loughlin, Valerie Dean, Bidle, Theresa Stouter
Publisher:Mcgraw Hill Education,
Text book image
Molecular Biology of the Cell (Sixth Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9780815344322
Author:Bruce Alberts, Alexander D. Johnson, Julian Lewis, David Morgan, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter
Publisher:W. W. Norton & Company
Text book image
Laboratory Manual For Human Anatomy & Physiology
Biology
ISBN:9781260159363
Author:Martin, Terry R., Prentice-craver, Cynthia
Publisher:McGraw-Hill Publishing Co.
Text book image
Inquiry Into Life (16th Edition)
Biology
ISBN:9781260231700
Author:Sylvia S. Mader, Michael Windelspecht
Publisher:McGraw Hill Education