What is the role of hemoglobin's heme group in the binding and transport of oxygen?
A
It acts as an antioxidant, preventing oxidative damage to the red blood cell
B
It binds to carbon dioxide, facilitating its transport from tissues to lungs
C
It contains the iron atom that directly binds to oxygen, allowing for its transport
✓
D
It regulates the expression of genes involved in erythropoiesis
Explanation
The heme group in hemoglobin contains an iron atom that directly binds to oxygen, allowing for its transport from the lungs to peripheral tissues.
Source
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Medium
MEDICAL
Confidence: high
