Red blood cells as magnifying glasses, detect anemia – Biotech

Red blood cells become magnifying glbades to diagnose anemia more reliably and quickly. This is demonstrated by the study published in the journal Acs Analytical Chemistry by the Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems of the National Research Council of Pozzuoli (Cnr-Isasi) in collaboration with the Center for Advanced Research and Biotechnology of Ceinges in Naples

indicate that it is possible to "discriminate against diseased red blood cells that have morphological characteristics similar to those of healthy blood cells," says Martina Mugnano, Cnr-Isasi researcher. To achieve this goal, the contribution of a previous Cnr-Isasi study, published in Nature Communications, was fundamental, demonstrating how red blood cells in suspension can behave as slow microscopes, with magnification and focusing properties. special.

By combining their ability to laser technology to create 3D images, researchers have managed to create a series of optical parameters "that identify each red blood cell, thus returning to different forms of anemia," Pietro Ferraro emphasizes. . , director of the Institute. Anemia is the result of alterations in the number, production and metabolism of red blood cells. The most frequently used examinations in the initial badessment of the disease include complete blood count, while for further investigation, the badysis of cell morphology is performed with blood smear observation. peripheral.

however, it is related to the experience of the doctor who observes the cells under the microscope and is therefore not without errors, "says Achille Iolascon, professor of medical genetics at Federico II University from Naples and responsible for the study at Ceinge. "With this new diagnostic tool – he continues – it will be possible to provide physicians with a more reliable and faster test, which will complement the consolidated laboratory tests for the diagnosis of anemia."