The most rapid way that erythrocytes adapt to high altitudes is A)by producing genetically altered hemoglobins that have higher O₂-binding affinities. B)by adopting the symmetry model of allosterism. C)by increasing the concentration of hemoglobin. D)by relying upon the simpler protein myoglobin. E)by increasing the intracellular concentration of BPG.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Erythrocytes adapt to high altitudes by increasing the intracellular concentration of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (BPG), which promotes the release of oxygen from hemoglobin molecules. This adaptation occurs rapidly, within a matter of days or weeks, and allows red blood cells to efficiently deliver oxygen to tissues despite the reduced partial pressure of oxygen at high altitudes. The other choices given, such as producing genetically modified hemoglobins or relying on myoglobin, are not known mechanisms of adaptation in erythrocytes at high altitudes.

The Most Rapid Way That Erythrocytes Adapt to High Altitudes