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RBCs contain haemoglobin, an oxygen binding protein that is responsible for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to tissues, and the transportation of carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs for elimination.

RBCs contain haemoglobin, an oxygen binding protein that is responsible for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to tissues, and the transportation of carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs for elimination.

[[Image:LH Hb Animation.gif|thumb|right|250px|<p>Blue(α) & orange(β) are globin chains</p><p>Red objects represent haem groups</p>]]

[[Image:LH Hb Animation.gif|thumb|right|250px|<p>Blue(α) & orange(β) are globin chains</p><p>Red objects represent haem groups</p>]]

<p>Haemoglobin (Hb)is a metalloprotein that binds oxygen reversibly and accounts for almost all of the protein in the erythrocyte.</p>

<p>Haemoglobin (Hb) is a metalloprotein that binds oxygen reversibly and accounts for almost all of the protein in the erythrocyte.</p>

<p>When bound to oxygen it is referred to as oxyhaemoglobin and when unbound, deoxyhaemoglobin. Haem gives blood its colour, and this colour depends on its saturation. When fully saturated with four oxygen molecules it appears red and when completely unsaturated it appears blue-red.</p>

<p>When bound to oxygen it is referred to as oxyhaemoglobin and when unbound, deoxyhaemoglobin. Haem gives blood its colour, and this colour depends on its saturation. When fully saturated with four oxygen molecules it appears red and when completely unsaturated it appears blue-red.</p>

<p>Haemoglobin also acts as an extracellular buffer

<p>Haemoglobin also acts as an extracellular buffer