[Protection of erythrocytes in D2O against damage by hyperthermy and freezing (author's transl)].

The haemolysis of erythrocytes after heating to 55 degrees C, after freezing and after osmotic damage was studied in normal water and in heavy water (D2O). Haemolysis in all cases was lower in the presence of D2O. The greatest increase in stability was observed between 5--20% D2O. The practical consequences of this protective effect for the preservation of blood are discussed.