Albumin Human

Albumin Human

Albumin Human is a protein that is commonly found in human blood plasma. It is produced by the liver and constitutes about 60% of the total protein in plasma. Albumin plays a crucial role in maintaining the oncotic pressure of the blood, which is essential for the proper distribution of body fluids between body tissues and the circulatory system.

Structure and Function

Albumin is a globular protein with a molecular weight of approximately 66.5 kDa. It is composed of a single polypeptide chain of 585 amino acids. The structure of albumin is stabilized by 17 disulfide bonds, which contribute to its stability and solubility.

The primary functions of albumin include:

• **Maintaining oncotic pressure**: Albumin is the main protein responsible for maintaining the oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, which prevents the leakage of fluid into the tissues.
• **Transporting substances**: Albumin binds to various substances such as hormones, fatty acids, and drugs, facilitating their transport in the bloodstream.
• **Buffering pH**: Albumin acts as a buffer, helping to maintain the pH of the blood.
• **Antioxidant properties**: Albumin has antioxidant properties, protecting cells from damage by free radicals.

Clinical Significance

Albumin levels in the blood can be indicative of various health conditions. Low levels of albumin, known as hypoalbuminemia, can be caused by liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. High levels of albumin, or hyperalbuminemia, are less common and are usually associated with dehydration.

Albumin is also used therapeutically in medicine. Human albumin solutions are administered to patients to treat or prevent shock following serious injury, surgery, or burns. It is also used in the treatment of hypoalbuminemia and in patients undergoing plasmapheresis.

Laboratory Measurement

Albumin levels are typically measured using a blood test. The normal range for albumin in the blood is 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL. Various methods can be used to measure albumin, including the bromocresol green (BCG) dye-binding method and immunoassays.

Also see

• Plasma protein
• Liver function test
• Hypoalbuminemia
• Hyperalbuminemia
• Oncotic pressure