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Updated: May 10, 2026
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Screening Assays to Characterize Novel Endothelial Regulators Involved in the Inflammatory Response
Published on: September 15, 2017
Red blood cell clearance in inflammation.
Marleen Straat1, Robin van Bruggen, Dirk de Korte
1Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Sanquin Research, Sanquin Blood Bank, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Summary
Anemia of inflammation involves increased red blood cell (RBC) clearance. Mechanisms include enhanced phosphatidylserine expression and increased RBC adhesion to the endothelium, distinct from typical senescent RBC clearance.
Area of Science:
- Critical care medicine
- Hematology
- Immunology
Background:
- Anemia is common in critically ill patients.
- Anemia of inflammation involves impaired erythropoiesis and increased red blood cell (RBC) clearance.
- Understanding RBC clearance mechanisms during inflammation is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of red blood cell (RBC) clearance during inflammation.
- To elucidate the role of phosphatidylserine (PS) and band 3 in RBC clearance.
- To explore factors contributing to reduced RBC deformability and increased endothelial adhesion.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on RBC clearance in inflammatory conditions.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms involving ceramide, sphingomyelinase, and phosphatidylserine (PS).
- Examination of the role of band 3, nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, and sialic acid residues.
Main Results:
- Phosphatidylserine (PS) expression on RBCs is enhanced in inflammation, primarily via ceramide and sphingomyelinase activation.
- RBC phagocytosis is mediated by the membrane protein band 3.
- Reduced RBC deformability and increased adherence to the endothelium are key features of inflammatory anemia.
Conclusions:
- RBC clearance in inflammation shares similarities with senescent RBC clearance but has distinct features.
- Increased RBC adhesion to the endothelium is a significant factor in inflammatory anemia.
- Inflammatory processes significantly alter RBC properties, leading to accelerated clearance.
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