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Abstract

Human red blood cells were hemolysed at 0°C in hypotonic media of varying pH (range 4.5–10.0). Subsequently the pH in the hemolysate was readjusted to 7.2 and the ghosts were incubated at 37°C for 45 min. The curve relating the yield of resealed ghosts to pH showed a maximum after hemolysis at pH 6 and a broad shoulder in the range between pH 7 and 9. The experiments suggest that during hemolysis buried ionizable groups become exposed to the ambient medium. The ability of these groups to return to their original locations within the hydrophobic interior of the membrane seems to depend on the charge which they assume during their exposure to the aqueous environment. However, alternative explanations cannot be excluded.