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Describe two possible mechanisms in which binding to CO prevents oxygen delivery.

Describe two possible mechanisms in which binding to CO prevents oxygen delivery.

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Answer #1

The problem with carbon monoxide (CO) is that it inhibits your ability to distribute O2 (oxygen). Hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells, binds oxygen in your lungs, and distributes oxygen throughout your body. Hemoglobin has a very high affinity for oxygen. However, it has a HIGHER affinity for CO. The usual function of hemoglobin is to bind oxygen (O2) and take it to a place in the body that needs oxygen, and then releases the oxygen. When hemoglobin binds CO, it binds so tightly that it will not let go. Therefore, the hemoglobin that binds CO becomes 'poisoned' and can no longer bind oxygen, destroying its function. Then, parts of your body do not receive the essential oxygen, and effectively suffocate.

hem + O2 <--> (hem-O2)
(reversible)
hem + CO ---> (hem-CO)
(irreversible)

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