Carbonic anhydrase (CA)

Definition

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of carbon dioxide and water to bicarbonate and protons, and vice versa. It plays a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance in blood and facilitating CO2 transport from tissues to lungs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbonic anhydrase is essential for the rapid conversion of CO2 to bicarbonate in red blood cells, aiding efficient gas transport.
2. There are multiple isoforms of carbonic anhydrase present in various tissues, each adapted to specific physiological roles.
3. The enzyme helps regulate pH levels in blood by controlling the concentration of bicarbonate ions.
4. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase can lead to disrupted acid-base balance and has applications in treating glaucoma and altitude sickness.
5. Carbonic anhydrase activity is crucial for CO2 excretion during respiration as it allows for quick removal of CO2 from the body.

Review Questions

• What role does carbonic anhydrase play in the transport of carbon dioxide in the blood?
• How does carbonic anhydrase contribute to maintaining pH balance within bodily fluids?
• Name two physiological conditions or medical treatments that involve inhibition or modulation of carbonic anhydrase activity.

Related terms

Bicarbonate Buffer System: A system involving bicarbonate ions that helps regulate pH levels in the blood.

Hemoglobin:

A protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from lungs to tissues and facilitating CO2 return.

Acid-Base Homeostasis: The maintenance of stable pH levels within bodily fluids through various mechanisms including buffer systems.