When iron is removed from the heme group in the macrophages of liver and spleen, the heme group is converted to bilirubin. stored and recycled. converted to biliverdin. eliminated in the bile. When iron is removed from the heme group in the macrophages of liver and spleen, the heme group is O converted to bilirubin. O stored and recycled O converted to biliverdin eliminated in the bile.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: converted to biliverdin.
Here’s the explanation:
When the iron is removed from the heme group in macrophages located in the liver and spleen, the heme group undergoes a transformation process. Initially, the heme molecule (which is a component of hemoglobin in red blood cells) is broken down by an enzyme called heme oxygenase. This enzyme removes the iron (Fe²⁺) from the heme group and converts the remaining structure into biliverdin, a greenish pigment.
Biliverdin is a precursor to bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when biliverdin is further reduced by the enzyme biliverdin reductase. Bilirubin then travels to the liver, where it is conjugated with glucuronic acid to form conjugated bilirubin. This conjugated form is water-soluble, which makes it easier for the liver to excrete it into the bile.
The bilirubin is eventually eliminated from the body through bile and excreted into the intestines, where it can contribute to the color of feces. Some of the bilirubin can also be reabsorbed into the bloodstream and eventually excreted through the kidneys, contributing to the yellowish color of urine.
In summary:
- The heme group is first converted to biliverdin in macrophages after the iron is removed.
- Biliverdin is then converted to bilirubin, which is eliminated in the bile after being processed in the liver.
This entire process is part of the breakdown and recycling of red blood cells, ensuring that components like iron are reused while waste products like bilirubin are efficiently excreted from the body.
