What is the significance of the differences in globin chain composition between fetal hemoglobin and adult hemoglobin?
A
Increased oxygen affinity in fetal hemoglobin allows for oxygen transfer from mother to fetus
✓
B
Decreased oxygen affinity in fetal hemoglobin prevents oxygen transfer from mother to fetus
C
No difference in oxygen affinity between fetal and adult hemoglobin
D
Increased carbon dioxide affinity in fetal hemoglobin
Explanation
Fetal hemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen than adult hemoglobin, which allows for the transfer of oxygen from the mother's bloodstream to the fetus.
Source
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Medium
MEDICAL
Confidence: high