<p>This handbook is a reference work on red blood cells – the most abundant cell type of the human body. With their main task of transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide, they help to sustain every organ system. Readers gain a broad understanding of other important blood cell functions, such as their active contribution to blood coagulation, or their buffering capacity for various compounds.</p><p>The detailed chapters outline the surprisingly complex design of red blood cells and their intracellular signaling cascades. Meanwhile, these cells lack a nucleus and other organelles, resulting in a short life span and limited metabolic capacities.</p>This work comprises all aspects of red blood cells from erythropoiesis to senescence. The editors include examples from the animal kingdom to reflect on comparative physiology and highlight the evolution of these cells. Students and scientists from Physiology and Medicine will appreciate this volume as a comprehensive reference guide.<p></p>