The biconcave shape of erythrocytes which maximizes rapid diffusion of oxygen is primarily maintained by
A)the covalent attachment of organelles within the cell to the membrane.
B)high levels of rigid cholesterol and saturated lipids that strengthen the membrane.
C)a network of embedded spectrin that crosslink to other membrane proteins,
D)a network of tightly-packed anion channel proteins.
E)a relatively low concentration of integral membrane proteins allowing tighter packing of lipid molecules within the membrane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The biconcave shape of erythrocytes is primarily maintained by a network of embedded spectrin that crosslink to other membrane proteins. Spectrin forms a mesh-like network beneath the erythrocyte membrane, giving it the necessary flexibility to maintain its shape while also allowing it to deform in order to pass through narrow capillaries.

The Biconcave Shape of Erythrocytes Which Maximizes Rapid Diffusion of Oxygen