What is the role of carbonic anhydrase in red blood cells?

Carbonic anhydrase plays a crucial role in the transport of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Its main function is to catalyze the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide into carbonic acid, which subsequently dissociates into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. This reaction is vital as it enhances the efficiency of carbon dioxide transport from tissues to the lungs.

When carbon dioxide is produced in body tissues as a byproduct of metabolism, carbonic anhydrase helps convert it into bicarbonate ions, which are more soluble in plasma than carbon dioxide itself. This conversion facilitates the transport of carbon dioxide in the blood, allowing it to be carried effectively to the lungs where it can be expelled from the body during exhalation. Thus, carbonic anhydrase significantly aids in the transport of carbon dioxide, ensuring that metabolic waste products are efficiently managed.