The Red Cell as a Fluid Droplet: Tank Tread-Like Motion of the Human Erythrocyte Membrane in Shear Flow

Key Points

• This research examines the behavior of red blood cells under shear flow conditions, specifically focusing on their membrane dynamics.
• Observed individual red cells in viscometric flow of whole human blood and dilute suspensions.
• Measured and analyzed cell elongation and orientation in the shear field.
• Quantitatively assessed tank tread-like motion of the erythrocyte membrane.
• Red cells exhibit elongation and orientation in shear flow.
• Membrane demonstrates a tank tread-like motion around the cell content.
• Quantitative measurements affirm the observed behavior in dilute suspensions.