Hapnikukandja

Hapnikukandja is an Estonian term that translates to "oxygen carrier" or "oxygen transporter." It is commonly used in a biological context to refer to substances or structures responsible for the transport of oxygen within an organism.

The most well-known hapnikukandja in vertebrates is hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it to the tissues where it is needed for cellular respiration. Other organisms may have different molecules that perform a similar function, such as hemocyanin in some invertebrates, which uses copper instead of iron to bind oxygen. In a broader sense, the circulatory system itself, with its vessels and pumping mechanisms, can also be considered a hapnikukandja system facilitating the movement of oxygen throughout the body. The efficiency of these hapnikukandjad is crucial for survival, as all cells require a continuous supply of oxygen for energy production. Disruptions in the function of hapnikukandjad can lead to various health issues.