Study Question Three

• Q3. What is the role of hemoglobin in the blood? What is special about the hemoglobin structure?
• What is the role of hemoglobin in the blood? What is special about the hemoglobin structure?

  Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. This protein bings oxygen in the lungs, forming oxyhemoglobin for cellular respiration in the tissues and organs. The same protein can also transport carbon dioxide, carrying it from the tissues to the lungs when it is exhaled. Hemoglobin also may regulate the blood's pH by acting as a buffer.
• What is the role of hemoglobin in the blood? What is special about the hemoglobin structure?

  Hemoglobin has a tetrameric structure, meaning it has four subunits. Firstly, globin chains made of two alpha chains and two beta chains. Secondly, heme groups, with an iron atom where oxygen binds, allowing up to four molecules of oxygen. Thirdly, quaternary structure, allows for the cooperative binding of oxygen. Finally, allosteric behavior meaning that factors such as pH and temperature may affect its ability to bind and release oxygen.