oxygen transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of oxygen (O2) into, out of or within a cell, or between cells, by means of some agent such as a transporter or pore. [GOC:ai]

Oxygen transport is the process by which oxygen is delivered from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide is transported from the tissues to the lungs. This vital process is carried out by the circulatory system, specifically the blood, which contains red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.

Oxygen enters the bloodstream in the lungs, where the partial pressure of oxygen is higher than in the blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen molecules. Each hemoglobin molecule can bind to four oxygen molecules, forming oxyhemoglobin. As blood flows through the body, the partial pressure of oxygen in the tissues is lower than in the blood, causing oxygen to dissociate from hemoglobin and diffuse into the cells.

Simultaneously, carbon dioxide produced by cellular metabolism diffuses from the tissues into the blood. Some carbon dioxide dissolves directly into the plasma. However, most carbon dioxide is transported by red blood cells. Carbon dioxide can bind to hemoglobin, forming carbaminohemoglobin. Alternatively, carbon dioxide can react with water to form carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+). Bicarbonate ions are transported in the plasma, while hydrogen ions bind to hemoglobin.

The transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide is a complex and finely regulated process. Factors that can affect oxygen transport include the partial pressure of oxygen in the lungs, the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the tissues, the pH of the blood, and the temperature. The efficiency of oxygen transport is crucial for maintaining cellular function and survival. Any disruption to this process can lead to a variety of health problems.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)