Blood is a body fluid in the circulatory system of humans and other vertebrates that delivers necessary substances such as nutrients and oxygen to the cells of the body, and transports metabolic waste products away from those same cells. [1] Blood is composed of blood cells suspended in plasma. Whether you are visiting our Spartanburg Community Blood Center for your first whole blood appointment or you are a frequent platelet donor, our center located minutes from Interstate 85 is the perfect place to give back live saving blood to your community.

Understanding the Context

In this episode, Blood Associate Editor Dr. Jason Gotlib discusses the Review Series "The New Wave of Targeted Therapeutics for MPN’s", with authors Drs. Stefan Constantinescu, Ann Mullally, and Marina Kremyanskaya. Blood is a specialized fluid that constantly flows throughout your body.

Key Insights

It’s made of plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Blood is a fluid that transports oxygen and nutrients to cells and carries away carbon dioxide and other waste products. It contains specialized cells that serve particular functions. These cells are suspended in a liquid matrix known as plasma. It has four main components: plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Final Thoughts

The blood that runs through the veins, arteries, and capillaries is known as whole blood—a mixture of about 55% plasma and 45% blood cells. About 7% to 8% of your total body weight is blood. Blood is a fluid present in the body, which is responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products. Red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma are the key components of blood, the essential function of blood is; its role in immunity, clotting, and homeostasis. Detailed information on blood, including components of blood, functions of blood cells and common blood tests.