Haemoglobin: meaning, definitions and examples
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haemoglobin
[ˌheɪməˈɡloʊbɪn ]
Definition
biochemistry, medicine
Haemoglobin is a complex protein found in red blood cells that is crucial for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. It consists of four subunits, each containing an iron atom that binds to oxygen molecules. When oxygen is bound, haemoglobin appears bright red, which is why arterial blood is red in color. Additionally, haemoglobin can also carry carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation, playing a vital role in regulating blood pH. Its dysfunction can lead to various medical conditions, including anemia and thalassemia.
Synonyms
Hb, oxygen-carrying protein.
Examples of usage
- Haemoglobin levels can be tested with a simple blood sample.
- A low haemoglobin count can indicate anemia.
- Haemoglobin is essential for efficient oxygen transport.
- The body's haemoglobin changes in response to altitude.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'haima' meaning blood and the Latin 'globus' meaning ball, reflecting its round shape.
- It was first discovered in the 1840s when scientists were studying the blood and its components.
- Various forms of haemoglobin exist, adapted for different species, reflecting evolutionary needs.
Science
- Each molecule of haemoglobin can carry up to four oxygen molecules, which is crucial for our survival.
- The color of blood is red due to the iron contained in haemoglobin which binds to oxygen and changes color.
- High altitudes can affect haemoglobin levels, prompting the body to produce more to enhance oxygen delivery.
Health
- Low levels of haemoglobin can lead to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness due to insufficient oxygen in the body.
- Some genetic disorders, like sickle cell disease, affect the structure of haemoglobin, leading to various health issues.
- Haemoglobin A1c levels are tested by doctors to monitor long-term blood sugar in diabetes patients.
Pop Culture
- The song 'Bloodstream' by Ed Sheeran metaphorically discusses how connections spread like blood, reflecting how haemoglobin transports vital elements.
- In the popular video game 'Oxygen Not Included,' players must manage oxygen levels, indirectly nodding to the importance of haemoglobin in sustaining life.
Literature
- Several classic novels reference health and vitality, with haemoglobin's role in oxygen transport symbolizing life force.
- In medical and science fiction literature, the manipulation of haemoglobin is sometimes used as a plot device to explore themes of life and death.
Translations
Translations of the word "haemoglobin" in other languages:
🇵🇹 hemoglobina
🇮🇳 हीमोग्लोबिन
🇩🇪 Hämoglobin
🇮🇩 hemoglobin
🇺🇦 гемоглобін
🇵🇱 hemoglobina
🇯🇵 ヘモグロビン
🇫🇷 hémoglobine
🇪🇸 hemoglobina
🇹🇷 hemoglobin
🇰🇷 헤모글로빈
🇸🇦 الهيموغلوبين
🇨🇿 hemoglobin
🇸🇰 hemoglobín
🇨🇳 血红蛋白
🇸🇮 hemoglobin
🇮🇸 hemóglóbín
🇰🇿 гемоглобин
🇬🇪 ჰემოგლობინი
🇦🇿 hemoglobin
🇲🇽 hemoglobina