Question

Lack of which of the following organelles impart flexibility to RBC to move through narrow capillaries?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Mitochondria
• C. Endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Cell membrane

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Endoplasmic reticulum

Mammalian RBC is devoid of three important cell organelles which makes it functionally efficient. RBCs lack nucleus, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Loss of nucleus allows it to have the biconcave shape, which increases its surface area for absorption of more oxygen. Absence of mitochondria prevents the cell from utilising the oxygen for cellular respiration. Absence of endoplasmic reticulum increases the flexibility of RBC enabling them to move through the narrow capillaries easily.