Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate: A Physics-Driven Characterization in a Medical Context
Published on: March 24, 2023
[Influence of polycythaemia on erythrodieresis]
Abstract:
Influence of the polycythaemia on peritoneal and splenic macrophage function and NO production was studied. Interaction of peritoneal and splenic macrophages with autologous erythrocytes was examined. Concentration of nitrate ions (stable metabolites ofnitric oxide) was measured in peritoneal lavage, splenic cells suspension, blood, as well as in supernatant of peritoneal and splenic macrophages. The data obtained suggest that splenic macrophages from intact rats are more active than the peritoneal ones. Splenic macrophage activity decreases whereas that of peritoneal macrophages stays unaltered in polycythaemia. Concentration of nitrate ions is significantly increased in this condition.
Related Concept Videos
Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...
Factors Affecting Erythropoiesis
Several factors influence the erythrocyte production rate, with tissue oxygen level being among the most critical. Intense exercise or high altitudes can cause tissue hypoxia, which triggers the kidneys to release more erythropoietin (EPO) into the bloodstream.
EPO then...
Erythropoiesis
Erythropoiesis
Structure and Function of Erythrocytes
The erythrocyte plasma membrane is associated with proteins such as spectrin, which forms a flexible cytoplasmic meshwork. This meshwork allows erythrocytes to twist, turn, become cup-shaped, and regain their biconcave shape as they pass through narrow capillaries. Additionally, erythrocytes can form...
Lifecycle of Erythrocytes
The resident phagocytic macrophages deal with these damaged cells by engulfing them and separating their globin and heme groups.

