Erythrocyte Fate and Destruction Quiz

Erythrocyte Fate and Destruction

• Old erythrocytes are removed from circulation by macrophages in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
• The breakdown of heme results in the release of iron, which is recycled and reused in the production of new red blood cells.

Bilirubin Metabolism

• Bilirubin, a yellow pigment derived from heme breakdown, is transported to the liver, where it conjugated into a water-soluble form.
• In the intestines, conjugated bilirubin is metabolized by bacteria into urobilinogen, which is primarily excreted in feces and urine.

Globin Metabolism

• Globin, the protein component of hemoglobin, is broken down into amino acids, which can be reused for protein synthesis.

Hemoglobin Capture

• When erythrocytes break down, hemoglobin is released into the bloodstream.
• The liver captures free hemoglobin and removes it from the blood.
• Hemoglobin is then broken down into its components, heme and globin.

Test your knowledge on the fate and destruction of erythrocytes with this quiz. Explore the process of how old erythrocytes are broken down, how heme and globin are separated, and the fate of bilirubin.