Alpha globin
Alpha globin
Alpha globin (pronounced: al-fuh gloh-bin) is a type of globin protein that is a component of hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in the blood.
Etymology
The term "alpha globin" is derived from the Greek letter "alpha", indicating the first in a series, and "globin", from the Latin "globus", meaning sphere, referring to the protein's round shape.
Function
Alpha globin is one of the two types of globin chains in hemoglobin, the other being beta globin. Each molecule of hemoglobin is composed of two alpha globin and two beta globin chains. The alpha globin chains bind to the heme group, a molecule that contains iron and is responsible for the red color of blood. The heme group, in turn, binds to oxygen, allowing it to be transported throughout the body.
Related terms
- Hemoglobin: The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It is composed of four globin chains, two of which are alpha globin.
- Beta globin: The other type of globin chain in hemoglobin. Mutations in the beta globin gene can lead to conditions such as sickle cell anemia and beta thalassemia.
- Alpha thalassemia: A genetic disorder that results from deletions or mutations in the genes that code for alpha globin. It leads to a reduction in the production of alpha globin chains, causing anemia and other related symptoms.
- Globin: A family of proteins that includes alpha globin and beta globin. These proteins are characterized by their globular shape and their ability to bind to heme groups.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alpha globin
- Wikipedia's article - Alpha globin
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