Albondin

Albondin also known as gp60 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ALB gene. It is a glycoprotein found in the cell membrane of endothelial cells and plays a crucial role in the transcytosis of albumin across the endothelial cells.

Function

Albondin is a specific binding protein for albumin and is responsible for the transcytosis of albumin, the process by which albumin is transported across the endothelial cells from the blood to the tissues. This process is essential for maintaining the osmotic pressure in the blood vessels.

Structure

The ALB gene that encodes Albondin is located on the long arm of chromosome 4 (4q13.3). The protein is a type II membrane glycoprotein and has a single transmembrane domain, a short cytoplasmic tail, and a large extracellular domain that binds albumin.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of Albondin can lead to edema, a condition characterized by an excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body. This is due to the disruption of the balance of albumin transcytosis, leading to a decrease in the osmotic pressure in the blood vessels.

See also

• Transcytosis
• Albumin
• Endothelial cells

External links

• GeneCards - ALB: Albumin