The plasma membrane of erythrocytes plays a fundamental role in the transport of oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitric oxide and in the maintenance of the reduced state of the heme iron.

Here we review new insights into the role of the erythrocyte membrane and the implications of its architecture on the several functions accomplished by the red blood cells. The picture which emerges highlights the capability of Hb and band 3 to modulate erythrocyte metabolism and to meet the needs of the cell.