and various metal-binding proteins.

TRANSPORT SYSTEMS IN VERTEBRATES

Formed-element fraction: (cellular component)
All vertebrates have a closed
consists of erythrocytes (red blood cells; RBCs),
circulatory system in which the
leukocytes (white blood cells; WBCs), and platelets
walls of the heart and blood
(thrombocytes)
vessels are continuously
contracted, and blood never leaves White blood cells: lower number than RBC,
the blood vessels. generally being 1 to 2% of the blood by volume.
Blood moves from the heart - divided into agranulocytes (without gran-
arteries arterioles ules in the cytoplasm):
capillaries venules veins [lymphocytes and monocytes]
back to the heart. - and granulocytes (have granules in the
cytoplasm).
Exchange between the blood and
[eosinophils, basophils, and neutrophils]
extracellular fluid only occurs at
the capillary level.
1.Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
CHARACTERISTICS OF VERTEBRATE
BLOOD AND BLOOD CELLS

blood: specialized type of

connective tissue that contain
both fluid matrix called plasma
and cellular elements called
formed elements.

functions: transports oxygen, carbon

dioxide, and nutrients
- defends against harmful microorganisms,
cells, and viruses
- prevents blood loss through coagulation
(clotting)
- helps regulate body temperature and pH

Plasma: straw-colored, liquid part of blood.

- mammals, plasma is about 90% water and

provides the solvent for dissolving and
transporting nutrients.

A group of proteins (albumin, fibrinogen, and

globulins) comprises another 7% of the plasma
that influences the distribution of water
between the blood and extracellular fluid.

- Albumin: 60% of the total plasma proteins,

roles with respect to water movement.
- Fibrinogen: necessary for blood
coagulation (clotting)
- globulins: include the immunoglobulins