False-colour SEM of human red blood cells

Credit: PHOTO INSOLITE REALITE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Caption: False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of human red blood cells (erythrocytes), biconcave discs packed with haemoglobin (the iron- containing respiratory pigment), that function in the transport of oxygen & carbon dioxide. The biconcave shape is an adaption for maximum surface area, over which the exchange of gases may take place. Erythrocytes are also very flexible, and are able to squeeze into the smallest capillary. The shape of erythrocytes is dependant on osmotic pressure of plasma; in hypertonic plasma (higher concentration than normal) they become crenated (star-shaped - one is visible at centre). Magnification: X 1090 at 35mm size.

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Keywords: anatomy, cells, crenated, erythrocyte, false-coloured, human body, red blood cell

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