Title:  Rigidity & rheology in sickle cell disease: a fertile connection

Abstract: Sickle cell disease is characterized by red cells that rigidify in the absence of oxygen, as a consequence of the polymerization of the hemoglobin that fills the cells. We will show how the polymerization mechanism is intimately related to measured mesoscopic rheological properties. This allows a refined understanding of the disease as well as providing novel ways to diagnose its presence.