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Red blood cells and platelets, SEM
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Red blood cells and platelets, SEM
Red blood cells and platelets. Coloured scanning electon micrograph (SEM) of human erythrocytes (red blood cells) and a platelet aggregate (purple). Platelets are fragments of white blood cells that under normal circumstances are small and biconcave in form. However, if there is a break in the surface of a blood vessel the platelets come into contact with molecules they are not used to and become activated. They become amorphous in form, with long projections (pseudopodia) that help them adhere to other cells and each other, forming a clot. Magnification: x4000 when printed at 10 centimetres wide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6319047
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Activated Aggregate Blood Cell Clot Clotting Colored Erythrocyte Platelet Platelets Rbcs Red Blood Cells Thrombocytes Wbcs White Blood Cell
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate world of our blood cells and platelets. In this colored scanning electron micrograph (SEM), we are granted a closer look at human erythrocytes, commonly known as red blood cells, alongside a stunning purple platelet aggregate. Under normal circumstances, platelets appear small and biconcave in form. However, when there is damage to a blood vessel's surface, these remarkable fragments of white blood cells become activated upon encountering unfamiliar molecules. As a result, they undergo a dramatic transformation - losing their defined shape and adopting an amorphous structure with long projections called pseudopodia. These activated platelets play a crucial role in the formation of clots. By adhering to other cells and each other through their pseudopodia, they create an interconnected network that seals off the damaged area. This clotting process helps prevent excessive bleeding and aids in the healing of wounds. Photographed by Steve Gschmeissner using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at x4000 magnification when printed at 10 centimeters wide, this image beautifully captures the complexity and beauty found within our own bodies. It serves as a reminder of the incredible mechanisms that work tirelessly to maintain our health and well-being on a microscopic level.
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