Characterization of hemoglobin Burke [β107 (G9) Gly→Arg]

Abstract

Hb Burke [β107 (G9) Gly→Arg] was discovered in a young woman with hemolytic anemia. A substitution in this position has not been previously reported either in the human β-chain or in any of the animal β-chains so far sequenced. The abnormal hemoglobin shows heat instability and a lowered oxygen affinity. The substitution of a large charged arginine residue for the small glycine residue in the G helix next to a heme contact (Leu-106) may be responsible for these effects. Hb Burke is compared with five other hemoglobins having Gly-Arg substitutions in other parts of the molecule.