Hematology | Erythropoiesis: Lifespan & Destruction: Part 2

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Ninja Nerds!
In this hematology and physiology lecture, Professor Zach Murphy continues our high-yield exploration of Erythropoiesis, focusing on the lifespan and destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) as they complete their journey from production to clearance.

We begin by reviewing the average 120-day lifespan of a mature erythrocyte and how its structure—flexible membrane, biconcave shape, and lack of organelles—enables efficient oxygen transport and circulation through capillaries.

The lecture then details the process of senescence and removal, highlighting how aged or damaged RBCs are cleared by macrophages in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow. We cover the reticuloendothelial system, and the breakdown of hemoglobin into heme and globin, with heme further catabolized into iron (recycled) and bilirubin (processed by the liver and excreted in bile).

We also discuss clinical relevance, including how disruptions in this process lead to conditions such as hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and bilirubin metabolism disorders.

This lecture completes the full picture of red blood cell physiology—from formation to destruction—tying in normal function and common pathology.

Enjoy the lecture and support us below!

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