Metmyoglobin

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Metmyoglobin is a form of the oxygen-carrying protein myoglobin, which is found in muscle tissue. It is produced when myoglobin is exposed to certain chemicals or undergoes changes in pH or temperature. Metmyoglobin is unable to bind oxygen, which can lead to a condition known as metmyoglobinemia if it accumulates in the body.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Metmyoglobin is structurally similar to myoglobin, with a single polypeptide chain and a heme group. However, in metmyoglobin, the iron atom in the heme group is in the ferric (Fe3+) state, rather than the ferrous (Fe2+) state found in myoglobin. This change in oxidation state prevents metmyoglobin from binding oxygen.

Formation[edit | edit source]

Metmyoglobin forms when myoglobin is exposed to oxidizing agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or nitrite. Changes in pH or temperature can also cause myoglobin to convert to metmyoglobin. In addition, certain genetic conditions can increase the body's production of metmyoglobin.

Metmyoglobinemia[edit | edit source]

Metmyoglobinemia is a condition characterized by an excess of metmyoglobin in the blood. This can occur as a result of certain genetic conditions, exposure to certain drugs or chemicals, or severe muscle injury. Symptoms can include cyanosis (a bluish coloration of the skin), fatigue, and shortness of breath. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition.

See also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD