Carbonic AnhydraseCarbonic anhydrase is an important enzyme which enables the human body to convert the metabolic product CO2 to carbonic acid, H2CO3, in the red blood cells for transport to the lungs. The enzyme action of carbonic anhydrase can speed the conversion of CO2 and water to the bicarbonate ion by a factor of a million. "Carbonic anhydrase also aids in the regulation of fluid and pH balance and is involved in producing essential stomach acid. The enzyme also plays a role in vision. When it is defective, fluid can build up and cause glaucoma. The enzyme is one of the fastest known, catalyzing up to one million reactions per second."(Denton)
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Index Biochemical concepts Chemistry concepts Reference Carbonic Anhydrase Denton Miracle of the Cell, Ch 6 News-medical | ||
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