**2. Structural features erythrocyte and the erythrocyte membrane**

Lacking organelles as nucleus, mitochondria, or ribosomes, the red cell does not synthesize new proteins, carrying out the oxidative reactions associated with mitochondria, or undergo mitosis.

The RBC consists of a membrane surrounding a solution of protein and electrolytes. About 95% of the protein is the oxygen-transport protein, hemoglobin. The remainder of the protein includes enzymes required for energy production and for maintenance of hemoglobin.
