Composition and Functions of Blood

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the composition and function of blood, hematopoiesis, and the immune response.

Blood plasma

The fluid component of blood that consists of water, proteins, and other solutes.

Erythrocytes

Also known as red blood cells (RBCs), responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

Also known as white blood cells (WBCs), involved in the immune response.

Thrombocytes

Also known as platelets, involved in blood clotting.

Hematopoiesis

The process of blood cell formation.

Colloid osmotic pressure

The pressure exerted by proteins in the blood plasma that prevents the leakage of fluid from blood vessels.

Albumin

The most abundant protein in blood plasma, important for maintaining blood volume and pressure.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Hypoxia

A condition in which there is a deficiency of oxygen in the tissues.

Buffy coat

The layer of white blood cells and platelets that forms between the plasma and red blood cells when blood is centrifuged.

Centrifuge

A device that spins samples at high speed to separate components based on density.

A and B antigens

Proteins found on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood type.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system that identify and neutralize foreign objects.

Cytokines

Proteins that signal and regulate blood cell production and function.

Blood type compatibility

The requirement that blood transfusions are compatible with the recipient's blood type to prevent adverse reactions.

Fibrinogen

A protein crucial for blood clotting.

Myeloid progenitor cell

A type of stem cell that can give rise to various blood cells including red blood cells, platelets, and certain white blood cells.

Aplastic anemia

A condition where the body stops producing enough new blood cells.

Colony stimulating factors

A group of cytokines that stimulate the production of specific types of blood cells.