Tag: Heme group

Globins are a highly conserved superfamily of proteins found in nearly all forms of life, from bacteria to humans. A globin protein is the globular, protein component of a larger molecule like hemoglobin or myoglobin, where it plays a critical role in binding and transporting oxygen or other gases.

Approximately 98% of the oxygen transported in human blood is carried by hemoglobin. This vital function is made possible by a specific metal ion at the core of the hemoglobin molecule, which forms a reversible bond with oxygen. Understanding the role of this ion is key to comprehending how our circulatory system works to deliver life-sustaining oxygen to every cell in the body.

The human body requires a steady supply of oxygen to function, a task primarily performed by red blood cells. Approximately 70% of the body's total iron is found in the hemoglobin of these red blood cells, which is the key component for carrying oxygen.