Erythrocytes in Human Life—Functions Beyond Oxygen Transport

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue explores the expanding knowledge of erythrocytes, extending beyond their traditional role in oxygen transportation. Using cutting-edge omics technologies, biochemical and biophysical analyses, and advanced microscopy techniques, researchers have unveiled mechanisms of the complex contributions of erythrocytes to immune regulation, redox homeostasis, metabolic control, and intercellular communication. These modern approaches have deepened our understanding of the active, systemic role of erythrocytes in physiological processes (such as aging and exercise, in addition to others) and pathological conditions, including cardiovascular, malignant, infectious, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases, paving the way for novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies. In addition, the unique biological features of erythrocytes—biocompatibility, long circulation lifespan, immune evasion, and the ability to be engineered—position them as promising therapeutic agents.

By integrating basic research and clinical perspectives, this Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of erythrocyte biology, highlighting their systemic importance in human health and disease, as well as their biomedical applications. We welcome submissions of both original research articles and review papers that focus on experimental data (including those from experimental and domestic animals), methodologies, and theoretical frameworks related to the significance of erythrocytes in human life.

Dr. Vesna Ilic
Dr. Ivana Drvenica
Guest Editors

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