**Core Concept**
2,3-Bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG) is a metabolite of glycolysis that plays a crucial role in regulating hemoglobin's oxygen-binding affinity. It is a key regulator of red blood cells' oxygen delivery to tissues.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
2,3-BPG binds to hemoglobin, causing a conformational change that reduces its affinity for oxygen. This allows for the release of oxygen to tissues, which is essential for maintaining adequate oxygenation. The binding of 2,3-BPG to hemoglobin is facilitated by its negative charge, which is attracted to the positively charged amino acids on the hemoglobin molecule. This interaction is critical for the regulation of oxygen delivery in response to changes in tissue oxygen demand.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not relevant to the function of 2,3-BPG. Binding to hemoglobin is not its primary mechanism of action.
* **Option B:** While 2,3-BPG is a glycolytic metabolite, its primary function is not related to energy production.
* **Option C:** This option is not accurate. 2,3-BPG does not directly influence the rate of glycolysis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Bohr effect describes the decrease in hemoglobin's oxygen affinity in response to increased CO2 levels, which is mediated by 2,3-BPG. This effect is essential for matching oxygen delivery to tissue oxygen demand.
**Correct Answer:** C.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.