What disadvantage,if any,would be there if the human RBCs become biconvex instead of there normal biconcave ?
2007-03-20 15:39:17 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
I would assume the same disadvantage would occur in this situation as it occurs in sickle cell patients. The abnormally shaped blood cells can no longer flow properly through the veins and possibly cause issues with oxygen flow/absorption/distribution throughout the body.
2007-03-20 15:46:02 · answer #1 · answered by I'm a Dasein 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The problem would be that, given that the cells would have the same volume, convex RBCs would have a lower surface area (spheres have the lowest surface area to volume ratio of any shape). The lower the surface area, the slower oxygen will dissolve in and out of the cell.
2007-03-20 20:56:42 · answer #2 · answered by Bill C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Biconvex Shape
2016-11-05 02:52:52 · answer #3 · answered by sicilia 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The would have more volume and wouldn't fit through small capillaries as easily. They would also take up more space in your blood, potentially making it thicker.
2007-03-20 15:42:58 · answer #4 · answered by Jeye 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
they would not be able to carry oxygen efficiently
2007-03-20 15:53:22 · answer #5 · answered by Roger 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋