Bohr effect
Quick Summary
The Bohr effect describes how a decrease in blood pH, caused by an increase in carbon dioxide, reduces the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.12
When carbon dioxide levels rise in the blood, it becomes more acidic (lower pH). This change in pH alters the shape of the hemoglobin molecule, making it less effective at binding to oxygen. Consequently, hemoglobin releases more oxygen to the tissues where it's needed. This mechanism is crucial for ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to cells, especially during increased metabolic activity. The Bohr effect is a key regulatory process in respiration, allowing the body to adapt to varying physiological conditions.2
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
