The Action of Two Sulfhydryl Compounds on Normal Human Red Cells : Relationship to Red Cells of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria

Treatment of normal human red cells with AET and cysteine, under suitable experimental conditions, modifies them in such a way that their behavior in in vitro hemolysis tests becomes similar to that of the erythrocytes of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.

It is felt that alteration of the red cells is due to the -SH groups possessed by both substances. A possible mechanism of action is hypothesized.