Topics:
Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher
Maturation Factors of RBC
Maturation factors of RBC include:
- All the above — Correct Answer
- Vitamin B12 only
- Intrinsic factor of Castle only
- Folic acid only
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All the above
RBC maturation requires three key factors collectively:
Maturation Factors for RBC
| Factor | Also Known As | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | Extrinsic Castle factor / Cyanocobalamin | Essential for DNA synthesis; deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia |
| Intrinsic Castle factor | Gastric intrinsic factor (GIF) | Glycoprotein secreted by parietal cells of stomach; binds to Vit B12 for its absorption in the terminal ileum |
| Folic acid | Vitamin B9 | Required for purine and pyrimidine synthesis (DNA/RNA synthesis) in erythroid precursors |
Clinical Importance
- Deficiency of Vitamin B12 → Pernicious anemia (Macrocytic, Hyperchromic) — occurs when intrinsic factor is absent or deficient (e.g., after gastrectomy).
- Deficiency of Folic acid → Also Macrocytic, Hyperchromic anemia.
- Deficiency of Iron → Microcytic, Hypochromic anemia (iron is NOT a maturation factor; it is a component of hemoglobin).
📚 About this Topic — Animal Physiology
This multiple choice question is from Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Physiology to strengthen your preparation.
