Fig. 6
From: Short-term intensive fasting enhances the immune function of red blood cells in humans
Cartoon illustrating the argument of the immune function of red blood cells by STIF. STIF triggers the activation of the complement system via complement receptors on the membrane of red blood cells to enhance the immune response to various pathogens, particularly SARS-CoV-2. When empowered with upregulated immune function by STIF, red blood cells maintain their oxygen transport capacity and viability