Red blood cells Flashcards
Understand the structure and function of red blood cells. And be able to list some common problems (47 cards)
How do red blood cells perform their metabolic activity?
Anaerobic glycolysis
Why do red blood cells need to produce ATP?
- Maintain cell deformability
- Maintain water and iron transport
What is the process of red blood cell creation called?
Erythropoesis
Where is a damaged red blood cell destroyed?
Inside the spleen
What is the globin recycled into?
Amino acids
What is the Haem recycled into?
- Iron
- Billirubin
What is the function of Erythropoetin?
Regulation of red cell production
What happens to Epo production during Renal hypoxia?
EPO production is increased
What is the average lifespan of a RBC?
120 days
What does an increase in reticulocytes usually show?
Increases rate of RBC production
Where are red blood cells destroyed?
Within the Red pulp section of the spleen
How does the spleen “select” for damaged cells?
Tiny 3ul windows seperate the splenic cords, If the cell cannot adapt it’s shape it won’t fit and therefore will be destroyted
How is O2 bound to haem?
Phsically
What is the normal blood pH?
7.35-7.45
What is the normal structure of an adults Haem?
Alpha 2, Beta 2, with each molecule surrounding a haem group
What is the observable pattern in the HB dissociation curve?
The first oxygen molecule is hard to add, However as more are added it become easier
How can O2 affinity be varied?
2,3 DPG will bind to deoxyHB, therefore reducing it’s oxygen affinity further
What is the difference between oxidation and oxygenation?
Oxidation: Changes charge
Oxygenation: Creates oxygen molecule association
When are Artificial red blood cells used?
Only used as a last resort for military usage
Advantages of Artificial red blood cells?
- Increased shelf life
- Universal administration
- No risk of disease transmission
Disadvantages of Artificial red blood cells?
Creates toxic free globin bi-product
Based off the paper from 1953, Which blood group had a more common association with cancer?
Group A
What is anaemia?
Reduced haemoglobin in blood
What are the clinical signs/symptoms of anaemia?
Shortness of breath, Juandice, weakness
