Effect of lanthanum on red blood cell deformability

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Hematology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Previous research on lanthanum (La(3+)) in red blood cells (RBCs) focused on cell fusion and membrane characteristics.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the rheological and biophysical impacts of La(3+) on RBCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the rheological and biophysical effects of lanthanum (La(3+)) on human red blood cells (RBCs).
• To quantify changes in RBC deformability, membrane viscoelasticity, and surface charge induced by La(3+).

Main Methods:

• Human RBCs were exposed to varying concentrations of La(3+) (up to 200 microM).
• Cellular deformability was assessed using ektacytometry and rheoscopy.
• Membrane viscoelastic properties were measured via micropipette aspiration.
• RBC surface charge was determined using microelectrophoresis.

Main Results:

• La(3+) exposure (12.5-200 microM) caused dose-dependent reductions in RBC deformability, particularly at low stresses.
• Membrane shear elastic modulus and surface viscosity increased by 25-30% at higher La(3+) concentrations (100-200 microM).
• La(3+) decreased RBC electrophoretic mobility (EPM), which correlated inversely with deformability; both changes were reversible.

Conclusions:

• Lanthanum (La(3+)) significantly alters RBC rheological and biophysical properties, including deformability and membrane mechanics.
• The observed effects of La(3+) on RBCs are reversible, suggesting a dynamic interaction with the cell membrane.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying La(3+)-induced alterations in red blood cell behavior.