unit 3; haemoglobin and mass transport

Question 1

primary structure of haemoglobin

Answer 1

sequences of amino acids in the 4 polypeptide chains

Question 2

secondary structure of haemoglobin

Answer 2

each polypeptide chain coiled into alpha helix using hydrogen bonds

Question 3

tertiary structure of haemoglobin

Answer 3

active site of protein is formed by folding of polypeptide chains

Question 4

quaternary structure of haemoglobin

Answer 4

4 chains linked, each associated with a haem group

Question 5

what is positive cooperativity

Answer 5

easier for oxygen to bind after previous oxygen binds- except for last

Question 6

explain the affinity when the oxygen disassociation curve is further to the left

Answer 6

greater affinity for oxygen, oxygen will unload less easily

Question 7

explain the affinity when the oxygen disassociation curve is further to the right

Answer 7

lower affinity for oxygen, oxygen will unload more easily

Question 8

explain the Bohr effect

Answer 8

the greater conc of carbon dixoide the lower the affinity for oxygen- carbonic acid changes active site