The role of 2,3-DPG in the oxygen transport at altitude

A computer program is described, relating blood flow with venous PO2 for any given set of the following parameters: oxygen uptake, respiratory quotient, the 2,3-DPG/Hb molar concentration ratio (G), arterial PO2, PCO2, and pH. Two compartments (total body and one leg) and two conditions (rest and maximal exercise) are considered. Calculations are performed at five altitudes (0, 3850, 5400, 6300 and 8848 m), for which the above variables are known. The results indicate that an increased G value has a negative effect on the oxygen delivery to tissues at very high altitudes (greater than 5400 m), irrespectively of the work load, since larger blood flows (delta Q on the summit of Mt. Everest is +4 to +71/min, and +1 to +2.5 l/min, for whole body and one leg, respectively) are required for a given oxygen uptake. For submaximal work at altitudes ranging from sea level up to 5400 m, as well as for moderate work at 5400 m, high G values improve the oxygen delivery to tissues.