Erythrocyte is the formal name given to red blood cells. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and found in the blood along with other hematopoietic cells.
Erythrocytes are partially characterized by their possession of a protein called hemoglobin. This protein helps transport oxygen from the lungs into other areas of the body. Erythrocytes are the most common mammalian blood cell.
Erythrocytes are disc-shaped with a small dimple in the middle—resembling a donut with most of its “hole” still intact. Scientifically, this form is referred to as an ovular, biconcave disc. Approximately 85% of blood cells found in the human body are Erythrocytes.
Erythrocytes circulate for approximately 4 months before old cells are recycled and new cells are produced through a process called Erythropoiesis. This process is largely conducted in the liver (R) and can be triggered through certain metabolic actions like fasting (R)(R).
