AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. The hemoglobin associated with sickle cell anemia causes red blood cells to become rigid, sticky and misshapen.

Detailed explanation-2: -Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in both copies of a person’s HBB gene. This gene encodes a component of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. The mutation causes hemoglobin molecules to stick together, creating sickle-shaped red blood cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -In someone who has SCD, the hemoglobin is abnormal, which causes the red blood cells to become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle.” The sickle cells die early, which causes a constant shortage of red blood cells.

Detailed explanation-4: -A blood and bone marrow transplant is currently the only cure for some patients who have sickle cell disease. After early diagnosis, your healthcare provider may recommend medicines or transfusions to manage complications, including chronic pain.

Detailed explanation-5: -Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin-Beta gene found on chromosome 11.