How does the structure of hemoglobin help its function?
The structure of hemoglobin, with four protein subunits and heme groups, allows it to bind to and transport oxygen efficiently. The heme groups in each subunit bind to oxygen molecules, enabling hemoglobin to carry oxygen through the bloodstream to tissues and organs. Additionally, the quaternary structure of hemoglobin facilitates cooperative binding of oxygen, meaning that as one oxygen molecule is bound, it increases the affinity of the other subunits for oxygen.