The magic of oxygen in the living body
The role of oxygen in living organisms is multifaceted and complex, and it is essential for the survival and continuation of life. From breathing to energy production to the maintenance of cellular functions, oxygen plays a vital role.
respiration
Oxygen was first used for breathing. In respiration, oxygen enters the body by being inhaled through the respiratory system (nasal, trachea, bronchus, and lungs) and then transported to the blood through the pulmonary capillaries in the alveoli. In the blood, oxygen binds to hemoglobin on red blood cells to form oxygenated hemoglobin, which is then transported through the blood circulation to various tissues and organs throughout the body.
Energy production
Oxygen is involved in the respiratory chain reaction within cells, which is a key process for the production of cellular energy (ATP). In the respiratory chain, oxygen is the final acceptor in the electron transport chain, and it combines with electrons to form water, thereby releasing energy. This process, called cellular respiration, takes place within the mitochondria and provides the cells with the energy they need to support the various activities of life, such as movement, metabolism, synthesis, etc. Maintenance of cell function
Oxygen is also involved in a variety of biochemical reactions that maintain cell function. For example, oxygen is an oxidizer or acceptor for many REDOX reactions that are necessary for the synthesis and metabolism of many key biomolecules in cells. In addition, oxygen also participates in many enzyme reactions in the cell, including oxidase, peroxidase, etc. These enzymes play an important role in the removal of waste in the cell and the decomposition of toxins.
Immune system
Oxygen also plays an important role in the immune system. Immune cells, especially phagocytes (such as macrophages, neutrophils, etc.), need oxygen to carry out the process of engulfing and killing pathogens. In addition, oxygen also promotes the movement of immune cells and the production of cytokines, thus strengthening the body's resistance to pathogens.
Sum up
Oxygen plays a variety of important roles in living organisms, from respiration to energy production, to the maintenance of cell function and the functioning of the immune system, and it is essential to maintain a good oxygen supply for the normal functioning of life.
At the same time, the change of oxygen content in the environment may also have an important impact on organisms, so protecting the environment and maintaining the stability of oxygen content is also one of the important responsibilities of human beings.
