Which protein in red blood cells binds and transports oxygen?

Prepare for AAMI Anatomy 1. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions with explanations, and detailed study aids. Succeed on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which protein in red blood cells binds and transports oxygen?

Hemoglobin binds and transports oxygen. Each molecule has four heme groups with iron that reversibly bind O2, picking up oxygen in the lungs where oxygen pressure is high and releasing it in tissues where it’s low. This cooperative binding makes loading and unloading efficient as conditions change. Myoglobin, by contrast, is stored in muscle tissue to provide a reserve of oxygen during intense activity, not a transporter in red blood cells. Fibrin is involved in blood clotting, and albumin carries various substances in plasma but does not bind oxygen.

Hemoglobin binds and transports oxygen. Each molecule has four heme groups with iron that reversibly bind O2, picking up oxygen in the lungs where oxygen pressure is high and releasing it in tissues where it’s low. This cooperative binding makes loading and unloading efficient as conditions change. Myoglobin, by contrast, is stored in muscle tissue to provide a reserve of oxygen during intense activity, not a transporter in red blood cells. Fibrin is involved in blood clotting, and albumin carries various substances in plasma but does not bind oxygen.

More practice questions