What is the primary mechanism by which carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, resulting in carbon monoxide poisoning?

A Competitive inhibition of oxygen binding ✓
B Non-competitive inhibition of oxygen binding
C Allosteric modulation of oxygen affinity
D Covalent modification of the hemoglobin molecule

Explanation

Carbon monoxide binds to the heme group of hemoglobin with high affinity, competitively inhibiting oxygen binding and leading to tissue hypoxia.

Source

Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high