[Effect of elevated hydrostatic pressure on the shape of human erythrocytes]

Influence of high hydrostatic pressure (2600-4300 atm) on the shape of human red blood cells was studied. An irreversible change of the shape was observed, which was similar to that seen in the case of a shift stress. The model modification dynamics of the erythrocyte shape was proposed. Activation energy and activation volume of the defects resulting in shape changes were calculated.