This is the red blood cell (erthrocyte). Does this cell actually have a hole in the center? Why is it thin in the middle of red blood cell?
No, the red blood cell does not have a hole in the center. The appearance of a "hole" or a concave shape in the center of a red blood cell is due to its unique biconcave disc shape. This shape enables it to perform its main function more efficiently - transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body.
The thinness in the middle of red blood cells is a result of their biconcave shape. The cell is concave on both sides, with a slightly thicker rim and a thinner center. This shape allows for increased surface area, which facilitates gas exchange by enhancing the cell's ability to carry and release oxygen and carbon dioxide. The thin, flat center also enables the red blood cell to bend, flex, and squeeze through narrow capillaries, ensuring efficient delivery of oxygen to tissues and organs.