[Campbell Biology P.552] What is the primary mechanism by which sickled red blood cells caus... | Practice Question

What is the primary mechanism by which sickled red blood cells cause harm in individuals with sickle-cell disease homozygotes ?

  • A: They cause excessive bleeding due to their irregular shape.
  • B: They block small blood vessels, leading to pain and organ damage.
  • C: They are more efficient at oxygen transport, leading to hyperoxia.
  • D: They multiply rapidly, overwhelming the immune system.

Explanation

The text explicitly states: 'The sickled blood cells of a homozygote block small blood vessels, causing great pain and damage to organs such as the heart, kidney, and brain.' This is the direct mechanism of harm.