Do mature red blood cells contain mitochondria?

Prepare for the ASPEN Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) Exam. Study with structured quizzes and detailed insights to enhance your knowledge and readiness. Get set for success!

Multiple Choice

Do mature red blood cells contain mitochondria?

Explanation:
Mature red blood cells do not contain mitochondria. During maturation, erythroid precursors shed most organelles, including mitochondria, to maximize space for hemoglobin and to avoid using the oxygen they transport. Their ATP comes from glycolysis in the cytosol rather than oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondria are present in earlier stages (like reticulocytes) but are removed as the cell fully matures.

Mature red blood cells do not contain mitochondria. During maturation, erythroid precursors shed most organelles, including mitochondria, to maximize space for hemoglobin and to avoid using the oxygen they transport. Their ATP comes from glycolysis in the cytosol rather than oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondria are present in earlier stages (like reticulocytes) but are removed as the cell fully matures.

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