Question

Which of the following best explains the ability for carbon monoxide (CO) to bind to hemoglobin (Hb) despite the relatively low concentrations of CO?

a) CO is a competitive inhibitor
b) CO forms a covalent bond with Hb
c) CO has higher affinity than oxygen
d) CO induces allosteric changes in Hb

Answer 1

Carbon monoxide (CO) forms a covalent bond with hemoglobin (Hb) and has a higher affinity than oxygen, allowing it to bind to Hb despite low concentrations of CO.

Step-by-step explanation:

Carbon monoxide (CO) has a higher affinity than oxygen for hemoglobin (Hb), which is why it is able to bind to Hb despite its relatively low concentrations. CO forms a covalent bond with Hb, which allows it to attach to the heme groups in Hb. This binding prevents oxygen from binding to Hb, leading to reduced oxygen transport through the body.