1. Transport of Gases:
R.B.C's play an important role in the transport of gases such as O2 and CO2.
i. Transport of O2:
When we inhale O2. Then this O2 reach the lungs where hemoglobin which is the chief component of erythrocyte combines with O2 to form oxy-hemoglobin. Actually the function of erythrocytes is to carry the O2 in the form of oxy-hemoglobin to various time of the body. After reaching the tissues again the O2 is released.
Hb+O2--------> HbO2
HbO2---------> Hb+O2
ii. Transport of Co2:
So after the oxidation of glucose Co2 is released which is not required in the tissues. This Co2 is carried back by R.B.C to the lungs in the form of carb-hemoglobin. From the lungs the Co2 passes out.
2. Energy Production:
R.B.C's also play an important role in the production of energy indirectly because after carries O2 by erythrocytes to the tissues where oxidation of glucose takes places and energy is produced which is required for normal body function.
C6H12O6 + 6 O2 -----------> 6-O2 + 6+O2 = Energy
If R.B.C's left the function of O2 transport no energy will be produced because no oxidation of glucose takes place.
3. Acid-Base Balance:
They also help to maintain acid base balance. It is carried out by the buffering action for example bicarbonates and plasma protein. The buffer action of plasma protein is of great importance which carries about 10% of Co2. In lungs O2Hb is formed from reduced Hb and H+ are released react with Hco2- to give H2Co3. As inside the lungs the cone of Co2. So the equilibrium, the right and Co2 passes out.
H(+) + HCo3(-) <--------> H2Co3 <-----> H2O - Co2
Posted by: Wasim Javed