Uppgift
How does fetal hemoglobin (HbF) differ from adult hemoglobin (HbA) and what effect does this
have? (4p)
OBS! This question needs to be answered in English. (Max. 100 words).
Answer
Adult hemoglobin consists of two beta subunits and two alfa subunits, while fetal
hemoglobin consists of two alfa subunits and two gamma subunits. HbA has a
lower affinity for oxygen than HbF.
Beta subunits allow for the allosteric regulator 2,3-BPG to bind. when 2,3-bpg
binds it enhances T-state because it becomes a type of blockage for the
conformational change to R-state, meaning that the affinity for oxygen is
lowered. 2,3-BPG cannot bind to the gamma subunits - meaning that the affinity
for oxygen increases.
Totalpoäng: 4