A right shift of the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve favors oxygen release to tissues. What causes this right shift to occur?

Explanation

Oxygen–hemoglobin dissociation curve:
•Left Shift (oxygen uptake)
-increased pH
-decreased 2, 3-DPG
-lower temperature
-increased CO
-pCO2 decreased

•Right Shift (oxygen release)
-decreased pH
-increased 2, 3-DPG
-increased temperature
-decreased CO
-pCO2 increased

Factors that move the oxygen dissociation curve to the right are physiological states where tissues need more oxygen. For example during exercise, muscles have a higher metabolic rate, and consequently need more oxygen, produce more carbon dioxide and lactic acid, and their temperature rises. CO binds to Hb better than oxygen, therefore it interferes with oxygen unloading from Hb.

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