Blood and Blood Groups Flashcards
What is blood made of?
Plasma, erythrocytes, leukocytes, thrombocytes.
What do all cells begin as?
Stem cells.
What are myeloid cells?
Stem cells that develop into red blood cells.
What are lymphoid cells?
Stem cells that develop into white blood cells.
What are …phage cells?
Stem cells that develop into cells to do with disease control.
What is the structure of erythrocytes?
- biconcave
- very flexible so they can fit through small capillaries
- membrane is made of glycolipids
- have no nucleus or organelles
What is the function of erythrocytes?
Carry oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Where are red blood cells made?
They are made in the bone marrow in a process called erythropoiesis.
What is the red blood cell cycle?
- start as a pluripotent stem cell - a proerythroblast
- following synthesis of Hb, nucleus is expelled leaving a reticulocyte
- the reticulocyte leaves the bone marrow and matures in 1-2 days, forming an erythrocyte
How long do erythrocytes live for?
Around 120 days due to wear and tear
What stimulates erythropoiesis?
Stimulated by oxygen levels.
What is the structure of a leukocyte?
Leukocytes have a nucleus and plasma membranes, which have proteins. MHC antigens are used for immunological purposes.
What are the two classifications of leukocytes?
- Granular - eosinophils, basophils, neutrophils
2. Agranular - lymphocytes and monocytes that develop to macrophages
How long do leukocytes live for?
Some live for months and years, others only live for hours or days.
How do leukocytes combat infection?
Through the process of phagocytosis and other immune responses.
