Hemocyanin
Hemocyanin
Hemocyanin (pronounced: /ˌhiːmoʊˈsaɪənɪn/) is a type of protein that carries oxygen in the blood of certain invertebrates, such as mollusks and arthropods. Unlike hemoglobin, which is found in vertebrates and gives blood its red color, hemocyanin is blue when oxygenated.
Etymology
The term "hemocyanin" is derived from the Greek words haima (meaning "blood") and kyanos (meaning "blue"). This reflects the blue color of oxygenated hemocyanin.
Function
Hemocyanin binds with oxygen in the gills or lungs of the organism, and then releases it in tissues that need it. The binding of oxygen with hemocyanin is influenced by changes in the organism's body temperature and the acidity of its body fluids.
Structure
Hemocyanin is a large protein, with a complex quaternary structure. It is made up of multiple subunits, each of which contains a copper atom. The copper atoms are what allow hemocyanin to bind with oxygen.
Related Terms
- Hemoglobin: The oxygen-carrying protein found in vertebrates.
- Respiratory pigment: A substance, such as hemocyanin or hemoglobin, that carries oxygen in the blood.
- Copper: The element that is a key part of the structure of hemocyanin.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hemocyanin
- Wikipedia's article - Hemocyanin
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