Name 3 buffers that exist in the human body? Include the conjugate and acid base pairs

The HCO3^-/CO3^2- system.

The H3PO4/H2PO4^- system.
I understand there is a protein buffer but I don't know anything about it. I'm not a biochemist.

In the human body, there are several buffers that help maintain a stable pH level. Here are three examples, along with their conjugate acid-base pairs:

1. Carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system: This is one of the most important buffers in the human body. Carbonic acid (H2CO3) is a weak acid that can donate a proton (H+) to become its conjugate base, bicarbonate ion (HCO3-). Conversely, bicarbonate ion can accept a proton to convert back to carbonic acid. This buffer system plays a crucial role in regulating the pH in the blood.

2. Phosphate buffer system: Phosphoric acid (H3PO4) acts as a weak acid in this buffering system. It can donate protons to form dihydrogen phosphate ions (H2PO4-) or monohydrogen phosphate ions (HPO4^2-). Depending on the pH of the environment, the concentrations of these different forms of phosphate adjust to maintain pH homeostasis.

3. Protein buffer system: Proteins, such as hemoglobin, are excellent buffers due to their ability to accept and donate protons. In this system, the amino acid residues within proteins act as both weak acids and weak bases. Depending on the pH of their surroundings, these residues can either accept or donate protons, helping to maintain a stable pH within cells and bodily fluids.

Note: Other buffers exist in the human body, such as the ammonia buffer system, but these three are among the most significant in maintaining pH balance.