In this article we will discuss about the structure and properties of hemoglobins. Structure of Hemoglobins: As indicated by their name, hemoglobins consist of a prosthetic group; the heme (4%) and a protein part: the globin (96%). A. Heme: This is the prosthetic group common to various hemoglobins (while globin varies in different hemoglobins). It contains one molecule of protoporphyrin [...]
The following points highlight the three major derivatives of abnormal hemoglobin. The derivatives are: 1. Met-hemoglobin 2. Sulfhemoglobin 3. Carboxyhemoglobin. Derivative # 1. Met-hemoglobin: a. This is an oxidized hemoglobin (ferrous iron is oxidized to ferric iron). Oxygen is in firm combination. b. It is incapable of functioning as an oxygen carrier. Cyanosis usually develops when the concentration of it [...]
The following points highlight the top two types of Porphyrias:- 1. Congenital Porphyrias 2. Acquired Porphyrias Type # 1. Congenital Porphyrias: A. Erythropoietic porphyria. B. Erythropoietic pro-to-porphyria. C. Erythropoietic coproporphyria. D. Hepatic porphyria. (a) Acute intermittent porphyria. (b) Porphyria variegata. (c) Hereditary coproporphyria. (d) Porphyria cutanea tarda. A. Erythropoietic Porphyria: i. Highly increased excretion of uroporphyrin I and, to a [...]