Impairment of Barrier Properties of Erythrocyte Membranes Caused by Low Temperatures is a Result of Disorganization of Hemoglobin Supramolecular Structure.

Background: The antecedence of impairment of plasmatic membrane structure and functions forms the basis of the dominative concept about mechanisms of cell cryoinjuries. A role of alterations of hemoglobin supramolecular structure in erythrocytes remains unclear.

Objective: Comparison of continuity of membranes of native erythrocytes and resealed ghosts after freeze-thawing with a cryoprotectant at a low concentration (4%).