Consequences of Disrupted Quaternary Structure in Hemoglobin

The structure of proteins is determined by their amino acid sequences, which dictate their unique folding patterns and functions. In the human body, proteins participate in nearly all biochemical processes and are essential to cell structure and function. The primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures of proteins arise from various types of interactions among amino acids, including hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and disulfide bridges.

Consider the following statement regarding protein structure: "The disruption of quaternary structure can lead to loss of functionality and potentially detrimental effects on cellular processes." Which of the following statements best describes a consequence of impaired quaternary structure in hemoglobin, a critical oxygen-transport protein in the blood?