Microcalorimetric Measurements of Heat Production in Human Erythrocytes I. Normal Subjects and Anemic Patients

Abstract

Heat production in human erythrocytes has been measured by a new microcalorimetric technique. The calorimeter consisted of a twin thermopile heat conduction unit. A 1 ml sample was enclosed in a steel ampoule which was introduced into the measuring zone of the calorimeter through a heat exchange system. Measurements were made on erythrocytes suspended in plasma and in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) containing glucose. Heat effects produced per liter erythrocytes were 79 ± 11 mW and 79 ± 8 mW, respectively (mean ± S.D.). In various types of anemia significantly higher values were found, mean value 126 ± 29 mW/l erythrocytes.

Key Words:

• Anemia
• calorimetry
• erythrocyte glycolysis
• heat effect