CARDIO- RBC; structure and function

Question 1

what does the red cell membrane consist of

Answer 1

50% proteins, 40% lipids and 10% carbohydrates

Question 2

describe the lipid bilayer

Answer 2

phospholipids - hydrophobic fatty acid tail and hydrophilic phosphate head

unesterified free cholesterol between the layers

integral membrane proteins
peripheral proteins - spectrin

Question 3

what shape is the red blood cell

Answer 3

biconcave

Question 4

how is the biconcave shape maintained

Answer 4

contraction and relaxation by actin

Question 5

what is the distinguishing factor between blood types

Answer 5

carbohydrates on the external surface of the cell attached by glycosylation

they can be straight / branched - which gives the cell its identity

Question 6

what is the primary function of the red blood cell

Answer 6

transport respiratory gases to and from tissues

Question 7

why is the red blood cell a biconcave shape

Answer 7

allows for optimal surface area to volume ratio for the exchange of gases
deformability and elasticity of the membrane allow for passage through capillaries

Question 8

what are the normal dimensions of the red cell

Answer 8

lack a nucleus, mitochondria and DNA
contains haemoglobin
8 microns

Question 9

describe microcytes

Answer 9

smaller white part

Question 10

define macrocytes

Answer 10

larger red part

Question 11

define ansiocytosis

Answer 11

size variation

Question 12

define poikilocytosis

Answer 12

shape variation

Question 13

describe the effect of changes in red cell structure on its function

Answer 13

if the shape was to change it would inhibit their ability to carry and exchange gases such as oxygen
they may also not be able to pass into blood capillaries due to rigidity of the membrane - leading to rupture / anaemia