[Campbell Biology P.997] Which of the following statements correctly describe the Bohr shift... | Practice Question
Which of the following statements correctly describe the Bohr shift and its physiological significance? Select all that apply
A: The Bohr shift is primarily caused by an increase in blood pH due to decreased CO2 concentration in active tissues.
B: In active tissues, increased CO2 production leads to the formation of carbonic acid, lowering blood pH and decreasing hemoglobin's affinity for O2.
C: The Bohr shift causes the oxygen dissociation curve to shift to the left, indicating increased oxygen release at a given PO2.
D: This phenomenon ensures that metabolically active tissues receive more oxygen, supporting their higher energy demands.
E: Hemoglobin's ability to bind H+ helps buffer the blood, minimizing drastic pH changes during the Bohr shift.
Explanation
The Bohr shift describes the phenomenon where a decrease in pH due to increased CO2 and carbonic acid production in active tissues lowers hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen, causing the oxygen dissociation curve to shift to the right. This facilitates the release of more oxygen to tissues that are metabolically active and have a higher demand for oxygen. Hemoglobin also acts as a buffer by binding H+, which helps to minimize drastic pH changes in the blood.