Erythrocytes Overview

These flashcards cover the key concepts regarding erythrocytes, including their structure, function, lifespan, and developmental characteristics.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and transport carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.

Lifespan of erythrocytes

The average lifespan of erythrocytes is about 120 days.

Biconcave disc structure

The shape of erythrocytes, which allows for a larger surface area for gas exchange.

Principal functions of erythrocytes

Carry oxygen from lungs to cell tissues and pick up carbon dioxide from tissues to bring to the lungs.

Consequences of insufficient RBCs

Can cause death in minutes due to lack of oxygen to tissues.

Organelles in erythrocytes

Erythrocytes lose nearly all their organelles during development, including the nucleus and mitochondria.

ATP production in erythrocytes

Erythrocytes utilize anaerobic fermentation to produce ATP.

Protein synthesis in erythrocytes

Erythrocytes lack the ability for protein synthesis due to the absence of a nucleus.

Mitosis in erythrocytes

Erythrocytes do not undergo mitosis.