Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in all red blood cells (RBCs) that is essential for the proper binding and transport of oxygen throughout the body. It consists primarily of globin proteins and heme groups. Hemoglobin acts as a two-way respiratory carrier, transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues and facilitating the return transport of carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs. Its mechanism involves cooperative binding—when one molecule of oxygen binds to a subunit, it increases the affinity for oxygen in other subunits within its tetrameric structure. Hemoglobin's function is critical in maintaining tissue oxygenation and acid-base balance[1][6][8]. In clinical settings, purified or recombinant forms may be used in blood transfusions during severe hemorrhage[1].

Other names

deoxyhemoglobinhaemoglobinhuman hemoglobin