Oksühemoglobiini

Oksühemoglobiini is the molecule formed when oxygen binds to hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. The binding of oxygen to hemoglobin is reversible, meaning that oxygen can be picked up in areas of high oxygen concentration, such as the lungs, and released in areas of low oxygen concentration, such as active tissues.

The oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin is crucial for aerobic respiration, the process by which cells generate energy. When oxygen binds to hemoglobin, it forms a complex called oxyhemoglobin. This binding is facilitated by the iron atom in the heme group of the hemoglobin molecule. The structure of hemoglobin changes slightly upon oxygen binding, which affects its affinity for oxygen. This cooperative binding allows hemoglobin to efficiently pick up oxygen in the lungs and release it where it is needed most.

The degree of oxygen saturation of hemoglobin is a measure of how much oxygen is bound to hemoglobin. This saturation level is typically expressed as a percentage and is influenced by factors such as the partial pressure of oxygen, temperature, and pH. In healthy individuals, hemoglobin is nearly fully saturated with oxygen in the lungs. As blood circulates through the body, oxygen is released to the tissues, and the saturation level decreases. This efficient transport system ensures that all cells receive the oxygen necessary for survival and function.