GasGasGas - The FRCA Primary Exam Podcast VivaCast 002- Co2 Journey, IntraCranial Pressure and Neonatal Physiology
Dec 7, 2024
In this engaging discussion, anaesthetic trainee Tom dives into the intricacies of CO2 transport and its crucial role in physiology. He explains how carbon dioxide moves from tissues to the atmosphere, stressing the significance of bicarbonate formation and the role of carbonic anhydrase. The conversation also explores the impact of CO2 and oxygen on intracranial pressure. Tom highlights the cardiovascular changes triggered by a newborn's first breath and umbilical cord clamping, making complex concepts accessible and lively for listeners.
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Three Routes For CO2 Transit
- Carbon dioxide travels from cells to air via dissolution, bicarbonate conversion, and haemoglobin binding.
- Carbonic anhydrase drives CO2 ⇄ H2CO3 ⇄ H+ + HCO3- permitting rapid transport and exchange.
Carbonic Anhydrase Powers Bicarbonate Shuttle
- Carbonic anhydrase catalyses CO2 hydration to carbonic acid which dissociates to H+ and HCO3-.
- The reaction buffers plasma and enables bulk transport of CO2 as bicarbonate.
Haemoglobin Mops Up CO2 Protons
- The H+ from CO2 hydration is not left free; it binds histidine residues on haemoglobin.
- Haemoglobin thus serves as an important plasma and cellular buffer for CO2-derived H+.