Hsp70 protein is membrane bound in red blood cells of human hereditary haemolytic anaemias

We have demonstrated that red blood cell (RBC) membranes in membranopathies are targets for inducible Hsp70 family members. A similar phenomenon was o bserved in several types of hereditary haemolytic anaemias. One common feat ure of the inherited haemolytic anaemias is that the mutations are manifest ed in the form of an altered RBC membrane structure resulting in premature cell destruction. Hence, we propose that malfolded (and mutated) RBC membra ne proteins are recognised by Hsp70 protein. Although the function of Hsp70 family members as a 'quality control system' is well known, this is the fi rst report of their presence in human anaemias.