Why are red blood cells biconcave?
1 Answer
Nov 26, 2016
Mammalian RBC's are typically shaped as biconcave discs i.e. flattened and depressed in the centre , with a dumb bell shaped cross section.
Explanation:
This distinctive biconcav shape optimises the flow properties of blood in the large vessels. It maximises laminar flow and minimises platelet scatter , which suppresses their atherogenic activity in those large vessels.
Overall mammalian erythrocytes are remarkably flexible and deformable so as to squeeze through tiny capillaries . They maximise their applying surface by assuming a cigar shape, where they efficiently release their oxygen load.
