Hemoglobin is a protein containing iron that facilitates the transport of oxygen in red blood cells. Almost all vertebrates contain hemoglobin,with the exception of the fish family Channichthyidae. A healthy human has 12 to 20 grams of hemoglobin in every 100 mL of blood. Hemoglobin is a metalloprotein, a chromoprotein, and globulin.

Health effects

Hemoglobin is a type of protein in your red blood cells that distributes the oxygen you breathe to muscles and tissues throughout your body. Without oxygen, your muscles would not have the energy they need to function normally.

Hemoglobin also picks up carbon dioxide and returns it to your lungs for you to exhale. This essential process helps prevent toxic levels of carbon dioxide.

Low effects

Hemoglobin is a component of your blood that delivers oxygen throughout your body. If your hemoglobin levels are low, your cells might not get enough oxygen. As a result, you might frequently feel tired, weak, or dizzy.

Hemoglobin synthesis

Hemoglobin synthesis occurs in the anucleate reticulocyte, however, on residual polyribosomes. The mechanism for globin synthesis has been worked out in rather explicit detail, and descriptions can be found in most biochemistry or molecular biology texts. Briefly, polyribosomes in the cytoplasm contain the template RNA which has been coded by message from the DNA of the nucleus. ATP-Activated amino acids bound to transfer RNA bring the proper amino acid specified by the code into position, and they are then linked by a peptide bond. Since the RNA code specifies the amino acid sequence, the sequence is ultimately governed by the coding of genetic material, DNA. Completion of a single globin chain has been estimated to take 90 seconds (Itano, 1966).

Risks of blood test

Having a blood test with a needle carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore.