Yes, the liver does form red blood cells (RBCs), but only during embryonic development.
Red Blood Cell Production: A Timeline
The primary site of red blood cell production changes throughout development:
- Yolk Sac: In early human embryos, the yolk sac is the initial site of RBC formation.
- Liver: According to the reference, the liver also plays a crucial role in RBC production during the embryonic stage.
- Bone Marrow: In adults, red blood cells are primarily produced in the bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones. This is where the vast majority of RBC production takes place after birth. Blood circulates through the body via the veins and arteries from the bone marrow.
Therefore, while the liver isn't the site of RBC production in adults, it is important in early development.
