Crenation

Definition

Crenation is the process where red blood cells shrink and acquire a scalloped surface due to the loss of water when placed in a hypertonic solution. This phenomenon is a result of osmosis, where water moves out of the cell to balance solute concentrations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Crenation occurs in hypertonic solutions where the external solute concentration is higher than that inside the cell.
2. Water moves out of the red blood cells during crenation by osmosis, causing them to shrink and become crinkled.
3. Crenation can be reversed if cells are placed back into an isotonic or hypotonic solution.
4. This process contrasts with hemolysis, where red blood cells swell and burst in hypotonic solutions.
5. Crenation impacts cell function and integrity, which can affect overall tissue health.

Review Questions

• What happens to red blood cells during crenation?
• How does crenation differ from hemolysis?
• In what type of solution does crenation occur?

Related terms

Osmosis:

The movement of water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Hypertonic Solution: A solution with a higher concentration of solutes compared to another solution across a semi-permeable membrane.

Hemolysis: The rupture or destruction of red blood cells, especially due to being placed in a hypotonic solution leading to excessive water intake.