Erythrocytes

Erythrocytes, commonly known as red blood cells, are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen, allowing for efficient gas exchange in tissues.

Hemoglobin:

1. red pigment that gives rbcs their color

2. Oxygen and Carbon dioxide transportation

3. Consists of 4 protein chains: globins

   1. Two are alpha chains and two are beta chains

   2. Each chain has a nonprotein or heme group: binds oxygen to an iron ion

   3. One heme can carry one O2 so a hemoglobin molecule can carry 4 O2