Hemoglobinopathies are a set of conditions where red blood cells have an abnormal shape that can cause them to stick together. Given the structure of normal blood tissue, what could be an issue with having sticky red blood cells?

• A. Blood's primary function is support, so sticky red blood cells aren't a problem. 
• B. Sticky red blood cells could change the viscosity of blood, impacting its ability for transport. 
• C. Sticky red blood cells wouldn't change the viscosity of blood, so transport wouldn't be impacted.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of red blood cells: Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation.
2. Consider the structure of normal blood tissue: Normal red blood cells are flexible and disc-shaped, allowing them to move smoothly through blood vessels.
3. Identify the impact of abnormal red blood cells: In hemoglobinopathies, red blood cells can become sticky and misshapen, which may cause them to adhere to each other and to the walls of blood vessels.
4. Analyze the effect on blood viscosity: Sticky red blood cells can increase the viscosity of blood, making it thicker and potentially slowing down its flow through the circulatory system.
5. Evaluate the consequences for transport: Increased blood viscosity can impair the efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, as well as the removal of waste products, potentially leading to complications such as reduced oxygen delivery and tissue damage.