What is the significance of the hemoglobin tetramer's cooperative binding of oxygen?
A
It allows for a higher affinity for oxygen at low partial pressures
B
It enables the efficient release of oxygen to tissues at high partial pressures
✓
C
It facilitates the transport of carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs
D
It helps to maintain blood pH homeostasis
Explanation
The cooperative binding of oxygen by the hemoglobin tetramer allows for a sigmoidal oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve, which enables the efficient release of oxygen to tissues at high partial pressures.
Source
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Hematology: Hemoglobin and Oxygen Transport
Medium
MEDICAL
Confidence: high