The production of healthy erythrocytes depends upon the availability of ___________. a. copper b. zinc c. vitamin \(\mathrm{B}_{12}\) d. copper, zinc, and vitamin \(\mathrm{B}_{12}\)

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: c. Vitamin B12

Step by step solution

01

Understand the importance of erythrocytes in the human body

Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are crucial for delivering oxygen to all tissues and organs within the body. Their health and production depend on certain essential nutrients.
02

Analyze the role of copper in erythrocyte production

Copper is an important trace element that plays a role in iron absorption and transportation. It is involved in hemoglobin synthesis, a protein in erythrocytes that binds to oxygen. While copper deficiency can lead to anemia, it is not the main factor in erythrocyte production.
03

Analyze the role of zinc in erythrocyte production

Zinc is also a trace element that plays a role in various enzymatic reactions in the body, including ones related to cell division and DNA synthesis. A zinc deficiency can cause anemia but, like copper, it is not the primary factor in erythrocyte production.
04

Analyze the role of vitamin B12 in erythrocyte production

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is essential for the production of healthy erythrocytes. It is required for DNA synthesis, specifically in the bone marrow where erythrocytes are produced. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to a specific type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, characterized by the presence of large, immature erythrocytes in the blood.
05

Select the correct answer

Based on the analysis of the role of copper, zinc, and vitamin B12 in erythrocyte production, it is clear that vitamin B12 is the most crucial factor for producing healthy erythrocytes. Therefore, the correct answer is: c. vitamin \(\mathrm{B}_{12}\)

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