Question

By converting CO2 to H2CO3, carbonic anhydrase _______the PCO2 in endothelial cells, red blood cells, and plasma, thereby _______ diffusion of CO2 from tissue cells to these locations.

Answer 1

Answer:

reduces; facilitating

Explanation:

Carbonic anhydrases is a type of metalloenzyme containing zinc metal which catalyze interconversion between the carbon dioxide gas and water and dissociated ions of the carbonic acid.

The reaction that is catalyzed by enzyme, carbonic anhydrase is:

HCO₃⁻ + H⁺ ⇄ CO₂ + H₂O

The enzyme maintains the acid-base balance in the body and helps in the transportation of carbon dioxide through out the body.

The carbon dioxide formed as a by-product of metabolism which is transported to blood in the form of bicarbonate ions by the action of carbonic anhydrase.

Thus,

By converting CO₂ to H₂CO₃, Carbonic anhydrase reduces the PCO₂ in endothelial cells, red blood cells, and plasma, thereby facilitating diffusion of CO₂ from tissue cells to these locations.