New Molecular Insights into Red Blood Cell Dynamics

Dear Colleagues, 

This chapter will explore the latest molecular insights into the dynamics of red blood cells (RBCs), emphasizing the implications for understanding diseases and advancing medical treatments. We will delve into the biogenesis of RBCs, their lifecycle, and the molecular mechanisms governing their function and degradation. Recent advances in molecular biology and genetics will be highlighted, showcasing how these findings could revolutionize therapies for blood disorders. 

Introduction to Red Blood Cells

Brief overview of RBCs’ function and importance

• Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide;
• Role in homeostasis and immune system interactions.

Historical perspective

• Evolution of understanding from early microscopic observations to molecular insights.

Biogenesis and Development

Erythropoiesis

• Detailed molecular pathways involved in RBC maturation from hematopoietic stem cells;
• Role of erythropoietin and other growth factors.

Genetic regulation

• Key genes and their regulatory mechanisms;
• Impact of mutations on RBC development.

RBCs’ Lifespan and Degradation

Mechanisms of aging in RBCs

• Changes in membrane composition and flexibility;
• Role of oxidative stress and autophagy.

Clearance from circulation

• Interaction with macrophages in the spleen;
• Molecular signals that tag aged or damaged RBCs for removal.

Molecular Pathways in Disease

Common RBC disorders

• Anemias: Iron deficiency, sickle cell disease, thalassemias;
• Hereditary spherocytosis and other membrane defects.

Molecular targets for therapy

• Recent breakthroughs in targeted treatments;
• Potential for gene therapy and CRISPR/Cas9 applications.

Frontiers in RBC Research

Innovative diagnostic techniques

• High-throughput sequencing and proteomics;
• Advanced imaging techniques.

Emerging therapies

• Novel pharmacological approaches;
• Regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy.

Conclusions

Summary of key findings

• Recap of molecular insights and their implications for disease management;
• Future directions;
• Predictions for new research areas;
• Potential impacts of emerging technologies on RBC research.

This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive update on the molecular dynamics of red blood cells, bringing together recent research that sheds light on their development, function, and role in disease. By exploring both foundational concepts and cutting-edge advances, the chapter will serve as a valuable resource for students and researchers alike, paving the way for future discoveries and innovations in the field of hematology. 

Prof. Dr. Joan-Lluis Vives-Corrons
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• erythropoiesis
• oxidative stress
• genetic regulation
• anemia
• molecular therapy