If a patient's red blood cells lack 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG), why does oxygen delivery to tissues become impaired in cases of high metabolic demand?

💡 Explanation

Oxygen delivery is impaired because 2,3-BPG normally reduces hemoglobin's oxygen affinity, facilitating oxygen release in tissues. Without 2,3-BPG, hemoglobin binds oxygen too tightly; therefore, unloading is reduced, rather than affinity for carbon dioxide or responsiveness of the respiratory rate being the primary issue.

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