Metalloproteins: haemoglobin, myoglobin
Bioinorganic Chemistry (Intro) · Chemistry
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Why does myoglobin hold O₂ tighter than haemoglobin? Step 1: Myoglobin has one haem — hyperbolic O₂ curve, high affinity always. Step 2: Haemoglobin's four haems cooperate: deoxy form has LOW affinity (releases O₂ easily). Step 3: In muscles (low O₂), Mb's higher affinity pulls O₂ from Hb. Step 4: Division of labour: Hb transports, Mb stores. Affinity gradient drives delivery!