Determination with a microelectrode of membrane potential of giant human erythrocytes obtained by La(3+)-induced fusion

The effect of La3+ on the fusion of erythrocytes of blood stored for a week at +4 degrees C was studied. It was shown that the fusion of erythrocytes begins after one day of storage of blood. The most intensive fusion of erythrocytes was observed on day 4 of blood storage. As a result, giant cells with a size of 100 microns and more arise. The electrical potential of giant cells was measured using a microelectrode and was -6.6 +/- 1.5 mV.