What is the role of hemoglobin's alpha-globin subunits in maintaining the protein's quaternary structure?

A They facilitate the binding of oxygen to the heme group
B They stabilize the tetrameric structure of hemoglobin ✓
C They regulate the synthesis of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate
D They inhibit the activity of carbonic anhydrase

Explanation

The alpha-globin subunits play a crucial role in maintaining the quaternary structure of hemoglobin, which is essential for its function in oxygen transport.

Source

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