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Explain why clumping hemoglobin proteins form long chains in sickle cell disease individuals

User Titusfx
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Answer:

Sickle hemoglobin exists as isolated units in the red cells when they have oxygen bound. When sickle hemoglobin releases oxygen in the peripheral tissues, however, the molecules tend to stick together and form long chains or polymers. These rigid polymers distort the cell and cause it to bend out of shape.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Vijayeta
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