Haemoglobin

Front

What is the nature of the haemoglobin molecule?

Back

Globular in shape.

Front

How many oxygen atoms can 1 haemoglobin carry?

Back

8

Front

What are the advantages of having 4 subunits in haemoglobin?

Back

Each haemoglobin can carry 4 oxygen molecules and exhibit cooperativity binding. Binding of oxygen molecule to one subunit changes the conformation of other subunits such that it has a higher affinity to bind to the next oxygen molecule

Front

What is the function of iron in the haem group?

Back

Binds reversibly to oxygen

Front

What is the quaternary structure of haemoglobin?

Back

Four subunits (2 alpha and 2 beta chains) associate to form a functional tetramer.

Front

What is the function of haemoglobin?

Back

Efficient transport of oxygen in blood.