HAEMOGLOBIN Meaning and
Definition
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Haemoglobin is a complex protein molecule found within red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen to all parts of the body. It is a vital component of the circulatory system, playing a crucial role in maintaining the body's overall functioning and health.
Structurally, haemoglobin consists of four protein subunits that are arranged together to form a globular structure. Each subunit contains a heme group, which consists of an iron ion capable of binding with oxygen molecules. This ability to bind and release oxygen is what allows haemoglobin to perform its oxygen-carrying function.
When oxygen is inhaled, it enters the lungs and binds to the haemoglobin molecules within the red blood cells. The oxygenated haemoglobin then travels through the bloodstream and delivers the oxygen to tissues and organs throughout the body, ensuring their proper function. Haemoglobin also aids in the removal of carbon dioxide, a waste product of cell metabolism, by transporting it back to the lungs where it can be exhaled.
A deficiency or abnormality in haemoglobin can lead to various health conditions, such as anaemia, which is characterized by a reduced ability of the blood to carry sufficient oxygen. Disorders affecting haemoglobin include sickle cell anaemia, thalassemia, and haemoglobinopathies, all of which can have detrimental effects on an individual's health.
In summary, haemoglobin is a crucial protein present in red blood cells that enables the transportation of oxygen throughout the body, ensuring the proper functioning of organs and tissues.
Common Misspellings for HAEMOGLOBIN
- gaemoglobin
- baemoglobin
- naemoglobin
- jaemoglobin
- uaemoglobin
- yaemoglobin
- hzemoglobin
- hsemoglobin
- hwemoglobin
- hqemoglobin
- hawmoglobin
- hasmoglobin
- hadmoglobin
- harmoglobin
- ha4moglobin
- ha3moglobin
- haenoglobin
- haekoglobin
- haejoglobin
- haemogolbin
Etymology of HAEMOGLOBIN
The word "haemoglobin" is derived from two separate components: "haemo-" and "-globin".
The prefix "haemo-" comes from the Ancient Greek word "haima" (ἁίμα), meaning "blood". This refers to the primary function of haemoglobin, which is to transport oxygen throughout the bloodstream.
The suffix "-globin" comes from the Greek word "globos" (γλοβός), meaning "globe" or "sphere". This is because the structure of haemoglobin is composed of spherical protein molecules.
Therefore, when combined, "haemo-" and "-globin" create the word "haemoglobin", referring to the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Similar spelling words for HAEMOGLOBIN
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