Structure of Hemoglobin

 Globular protein
 Consists of:

-2 different pairs of

POLYPEPTIDE CHAIN

-4 heme groups

*each heme group is

embedded in each

polypeptide chain
The Heme

Ring of Protoporphyrin IX

Each of them is positioned

in the pocket of the

polypeptide chain near

the surface of the whole

hgb molecule

Ferrous Ion (Fe2+) on its

center

-----where O2 combines with
The Heme


When O2 combines with

Ferrous Iron (Fe2+)

-becomes Ferric Iron
(Fe3+)...Oxidized form...
The Globin Chains

Total of 4 in a HgB molecule =

2 of one type

+

2 of another type

We have different types of

globin chains depending

on the:

number of AA

Sequence of AA
Different Types of Globin Chains
Normal Hemoglobins
Must Know!

Predominant globulin of fetuses and newborns

= alpha-type (2) + gamma-type (2)

----- Hemoglobin F


Predominant globulin of adults

= alpha-type (2) + beta-type (2)

---- Hemoglobin A


Must Know!


On Beta-globulin, the 6th
amino acid of


Normal RBC –

Glutamate (- charged)


Sickle Cell-

Valine (+ charged)
The Whole Beta-globin
Molecule