What is responsible for erythrocyte deformability and maintaining cell shape?
a. Membrane proteins
b. Na+ and K+ pump
c. Membrane lipids
d. Ca2+ pump
ANS: A
Proteins in the membrane are responsible for maintaining the shape and deformability of the red cell. Cation pumps maintain the Na+ and K+ gradient within the red cell. Membrane lipids form the fluid foundation into which the membrane proteins are inserted. The Ca2+ pump maintains intracellular levels of Ca2+.
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