Question

Briefly explain the process of sickling of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) during sickle cell anaemia. Why does sickle celled RBCs lead to anaemic conditions in patients?

Hint:

The sickle cell allele persists at high frequencies in malaria-endemic regions (like parts of Africa and India) because heterozygotes ($HbA/HbS$) have a survival advantage against malaria (Plasmodium falciparum), a phenomenon known as heterozygote advantage.

Answer 1