What is blood? Describe its components …

• Blood is a special connective tissue consisting of a fluid matrix, plasma, and formed elements.

There are many cellular structures in the composition of blood. When a sample of blood is spun in a centrifuge machine, they separate into the following constituents: Plasma, buffy coat and erythrocytes.

Plasma

The liquid state of blood can be contributed to plasma as it makes up  ~55% of blood. It is pale yellow in colour and when separated, it consists of salts, nutrients, water and enzymes. Blood plasma also contains important proteins and other components necessary for overall health. Hence, blood plasma transfusions are given to patients with liver failure and life-threatening injuries.

Red Blood Cells (RBC)

Red blood cells consist of Haemoglobin, a protein. They are produced by the bone marrow to primarily carry oxygen to the body and carbon dioxide away from it.

White Blood Cells (WBC)

White blood cells are responsible for fighting foreign pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi) that enter our body. They circulate throughout our body and originate from the bone marrow.

Platelets

Tiny disc-shaped cells that help regulate blood flow when any part of the body is damaged, thereby aiding in fast recovery through clotting of blood.