A mutation results in a form of hemoglobin with binding sites for four molecules of oxygen but does not exhibit cooperative binding. Which of the following would result?
A) Each hemoglobin molecule would bind only one molecule of oxygen.
B) Oxygen would be delivered to the tissues more readily than in a normal individual.
C) The oxygen- hemoglobin dissociation curve would be unaffected.
D) Both A and C would occur.
E) None of the above would result.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mutation described would likely alter the oxygen-binding behavior of hemoglobin, making it different from normal hemoglobin, which exhibits cooperative binding. Without cooperative binding, the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve would change, typically becoming more hyperbolic rather than sigmoidal, and oxygen delivery to tissues could be less efficient, as cooperative binding enhances oxygen release where it is needed most. Thus, none of the provided options accurately describe the expected outcomes of such a mutation.

A Mutation Results in a Form of Hemoglobin with Binding