Procedure for Microscopic Analysis of Red Blood Cell Membranes

Transition from micron to nanometric image sizes creates many problems associated with the emergence of non-uniform scale heterogeneities of objects. To recognize the structural units of membrane heterogeneities is a complex pathophysiological and biophysical task. Objection: to show main methodological approaches to analyzing the heterogeneities of membrane nanostructures when using microscopy and to demonstrate the need for an expert evaluation when investigating red blood cell membranes in health and the influence of exogenous and physicochemical factors on blood. The paper discusses the limits of applicability of optical and atomic force microscopy. It shows the heterogeneities of cell distribution over the ensemble, surface of an individual cell, by the pattern and extent of local membrane damages and by a number of others. To take into account all the types of heterogeneities, to form the qualitative monolayers of cells, and to choose scanning nanoscales adequately with the tasks may contribute to the successful implementation of the research goals set. Key words: membranes, heterogeneities, local defects, optical, atomic force microscopy.