The reason for fetal globin chain switching is that
A) a fetus does not need oxygen but a newborn does.
B) a fetus has four alpha globin chains and a newborn has four beta globin chains.
C) a fetus' blood is clear until the sixth month, and then globin chains turn it red.
D) the newborn needs more iron than the fetus or embryo.
E) the embryo and fetus receive different concentrations of oxygen compared to after birth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reason for fetal globin chain switching is that the embryo and fetus receive different concentrations of oxygen compared to after birth. Fetal globin has a higher affinity for oxygen and can extract oxygen efficiently from the lower concentration in fetal blood. However, after birth, the concentration of oxygen increases, and the switch to adult globin (with beta chains) becomes necessary to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to the tissues.

The Reason for Fetal Globin Chain Switching Is That