Question

Capillaries are small, narrow blood vessels that allow for the transfer of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nutrients. The image compares the flow of normal red blood cells to the flow of sickle-shaped red blood cells.

The illustration titled 'Sickle cell Anemia' shows the flow of normal red blood cells and abnormal red blood cells in the capillary. The abnormal red blood cells are sickle in shape and some are normal shaped. The normal red blood cells flow smoothly and the abnormal red blood cells clump together and do not flow smoothly in the capillary.

Which statement BEST describes how the sickle cell gene mutation can affect an organism?

A
The sickle shape can allow the cells to more readily transport blood to any part of the organism's body.
B
The sickle shape can cause the cells to move too quickly throughout the organism to transfer materials.
C
The capillaries can exchange gases at a faster rate so that the body may receive more oxygen.
D
The capillaries can become blocked so that blood flow throughout the body may be limited.

Answer 1

D. The capillaries can become blocked so that blood flow throughout the body may be limited.

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become misshapen and can lead to blockages in small blood vessels, impairing blood flow. The characteristic sickle shape of the red blood cells can cause them to clump together, leading to obstructions in capillaries and restricting the flow of blood. This limitation in blood flow can result in various health issues and complications for individuals with sickle cell anemia.