Sickle Cell Anemia: Causes, Symptoms & Genetic Basis

The genetic disease in which hemoglobin changes shape and the red blood cells become stiff and sticky is called sickle cell anemia. This condition is caused by a mutation in the beta-globin gene, which leads to the production of abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S). Hemoglobin S is less soluble than normal hemoglobin, and it can cause the red blood cells to become sickle-shaped when they are deprived of oxygen. These sickle-shaped cells can get stuck in small blood vessels, which can lead to pain, tissue damage, and organ failure.