Erythrocyte Ca 2+ content and red cell membrane transverse fluidity gradient in a group of subjects with chronic renal failure (CRF)

Abstract

In a group of stable CRF subjects, we evaluated the red cell membrane transverse fluidity gradient (obtained marking intact red blood cells with fatty acid fluorescent probes) and the total erythrocyte Ca²⁺ content. From the obtained results, it is evident that both these parameters discriminate the CRF subjects from normal controls. These data suggest an impairment of the erythrocyte rheology and metabolism in this disease.