HEMOGLOBINS Meaning and
Definition
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Hemoglobins are a group of protein molecules found in red blood cells that are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and delivering carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs for elimination. They are essential for the proper functioning of the circulatory system.
The structure of hemoglobins consists of four globin chains, each composed of amino acids and associated with a heme group. The heme group contains iron, which is responsible for binding with oxygen. Hemoglobins can exist in different forms, depending on the specific globin chains they contain. The most common types of hemoglobins in humans are hemoglobin A, which is predominant in adults, and hemoglobin F, which is mainly present in fetal life.
The measurement of hemoglobin levels is vital in assessing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Abnormal levels of hemoglobins can indicate certain health conditions such as anemia, polycythemia, or genetic disorders like sickle cell disease and thalassemia.
Furthermore, hemoglobins contribute to the red color of blood due to their iron content. This coloration is important for the visual inspection of blood during medical examinations and diagnoses.
To summarize, hemoglobins are protein molecules found in red blood cells that bind with oxygen and facilitate its transport throughout the body. They play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy circulatory system, and their levels are often assessed as part of routine blood tests.
Common Misspellings for HEMOGLOBINS
Etymology of HEMOGLOBINS
The word "hemoglobin" has its roots in both Greek and Latin. The term "hemo-" comes from the Greek word "haima", which means "blood". The suffix "-globin" is derived from the Latin word "globus", meaning "sphere" or "globe".
The term "hemoglobin" was coined in the mid-19th century by the German physiologist Friedrich Ludwig Hünefeld, who used it to describe the protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. The combination of "hemo-" and "-globin" reflects the protein's role in forming spherical structures within the red blood cells that bind to and carry oxygen.
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