Abstract

Why should we take interest in studying red blood cells? This mini review attempts to answer this question and highlights the problems that authors find most appealing in this dynamic research area. It addresses the early career scientists who are just starting their independent journey and facing tough times. Despite unlimited access to information, the exponential development of computational and intellectual powers, and the seemingly endless possibilities open to talented and ambitious early career researchers, they soon realize that the pressure of imminent competition for financial support is hard. They have to hit deadlines, produce data, publish, report, teach, manage, lead groups, and remain loving family members at the same time. Are these countless hardships worth it? We think they are. Despite centuries of research, red blood cells remain a mysterious and fascinating study objects. These cells bring together experts within the family of the European Red Cell Society and beyond. We all share our joy for the unknown and excitement in understanding how red cells function and what they tell us about the microenvironments and macroenvironments they live in. This review is an invitation to our colleagues to join us on our quest.

MeSH

Erythrocytes, Panic, Blood Cells, Research

Cited by

• Does Plasma Inhibit the Activity of KCl Cotransport in Red Cells From LK Sheep? Front Physiol, 2022
• Advances in Red Blood Cells Research. Cells, 2024
• Editorial: Red Blood Cells at the Mount of Truth: Highlights of the 22nd Meeting of the European Red Cell Research Society. Front Physiol, 2020
• Continuous Percoll Gradient Centrifugation of Erythrocytes-Explanation of Cellular Bands and Compromised Age Separation. Cells, 2022
• Unidirectional fluxes of monovalent ions in human erythrocytes compared with lymphoid U937 cells: Transient processes after stopping the sodium pump and in response to osmotic challenge. PLoS One, 2023