The Genetic Disorder Sickle-Cell Anemia Develops Because the Hemoglobin Molecule

question 66

Multiple Choice

The genetic disorder sickle-cell anemia develops because the hemoglobin molecule is deformed.Afflicted individuals often suffer muscle pain,even at low levels of exertion.A reasonable hypothesis for the symptoms is that the deformed hemoglobin

• A) is unable to carry the amount of oxygen required for normal muscle activity.
• B) cannot diffuse across the red blood cell membranes to the blood plasma,causing an oxygen shortage.
• C) causes damage to muscle proteins as it diffuses into the muscle cell.
• D) damages the alveolar surfaces and decreases the total surface area available for gas exchange.