Structure of Heme

by Scott Prahl, Oregon Medical Laser Center

A model of heme.(Click to enlarge.)

mol. wt. 616.48 C₃₄H₃₂FeN₄O₄; It is the color furnishing portion of hemoglobin. Absorption max in phosphate buffer at ph 7 is ~550, 575 nm. Sparingly soluble in glacial acetic acid; frreely soluble in prsence of xygen. Very unstable.

Heme is very similar to protoporphyrin IX. See below.

© SAP 8 June 1998