Explain why haemoglobin in Sickle Cell Anaemia is less effective at carrying oxygen.

The mutation present in sickle cell anaemia causes a change in the primary structure of amino acids in the haemoglobin molecule. This change in primary structure changes the tertiary structure of a haemoglobin peptide chain meaning that its unique 3D shape is different. This change in shape means that the molecule is less complementary to oxygen molecules making association harder.

KT
Answered by Kit T. Biology tutor

2796 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I work out a genetic cross?


Describe the relationship between Arbuscular Myccorhyzal fungi and plants


What are the major similarities between oxidative phosphorylation and non-cyclic photophosphorylation?


Why do foetuses have different haemoglobin to adults?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning