Final answer:
The globin protein in hemoglobin is metabolized into various amino acids when RBCs are phagocytized by macrophages. These amino acids are reused for protein synthesis or for making new erythrocytes. The non-protein part of hemoglobin is processed into bilirubin for bile production.
Step-by-step explanation:
The globin portion of hemoglobin, which is a protein, is metabolized into amino acids once the red blood cells (RBCs) have been consumed by macrophages. These amino acids are then recycled and can be used by the body for synthesizing new proteins, including the production of new erythrocytes (red blood cells) in the bone marrow. The metabolism of globin leads to the production of various amino acids, which include the ones listed in the question.
As part of the breakdown process, hemoglobin that is not phagocytosed is degraded in the circulation, releasing alpha and beta chains that can be removed from the body by the kidneys. The iron from the heme portion can be stored in organs like the liver or spleen or transported back to the bone marrow for use in new red blood cell creation. Meanwhile, the non-iron portion of heme is converted into bilirubin, which participates in bile production. This cascade of processes ensures that the components of hemoglobin are efficiently recycled or excreted, maintaining balance within the body's systems.