Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 5, 2025

Author Spotlight: Utilizing Next-Generation Polymerized Human Hemoglobin for Improved Donor Lung Evaluation and Preservation in Rats
Published on: June 14, 2024
The evolution of erythrocytes and oxygen delivery in vertebrate animals: Introduction
1Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
Abstract:
This manuscript provides a brief introduction and overview of four companion papers that focus on the evolution of oxygen uptake and delivery to tissues. Although major emphasis is placed on the characteristics of erythrocytes and the hemoglobin they contain and how these characteristics vary by taxa in response to environmental influences and metabolic requirements, the accompanying evolution of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and their interactions with erythrocytes are also discussed. In addition, the similarities and differences in erythropoiesis and the presence of immature erythrocytes in blood across taxa are presented.
Related Concept Videos
Respiration and Gaseous Exchange
Respiration involves the exchange of gases, especially oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2), between the alveoli and body cells, a process facilitated by blood circulation. As a result, the cardiovascular system, which involves...
Oxygen Transport in the Blood
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
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...
Hemoglobin
When all four heme groups are bound to oxygen, the resulting molecule is called oxyhemoglobin. As a result, arterial blood...

