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AAT Bioquest

What do red blood cells look like?

Posted November 20, 2023


Answer

Under the microscope, red blood cells as round or oval biconcave anucleate discs that resemble a doughnut but with an indentation in the center instead of a hollow cut-out. 

Red blood cells get their bright red color from their rich hemoglobin content. 

Their biconcave disc shape increases the surface area to volume ratio, making it easier for gasses to diffuse in and out of the blood cells. 

The absence of nucleus makes it easier for red blood cells to alter their shape so they can squeeze through small capillaries and move throughout your body more efficiently. 

Additional resources

Shape and Biomechanical Characteristics of Human Red Blood Cells in Health and Disease

Cellular Processes

iFluor® 488 Anti-human CD8 Antibody *OKT-8*