Knowra Albumin Albumin Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, made primarily by the liver. It helps retain water in blood vessels and carries many substances through the circulation.
Oncotic pressure : The component of osmotic pressure generated by proteins that draws water across a semipermeable membrane. Albumin supplies most plasma oncotic pressure, helping keep fluid within blood vessels.
Serum albumin test : A blood test that measures albumin concentration in serum. The result helps assess liver function, nutritional state, inflammation, and fluid balance.
Serum albumin : The soluble albumin protein that circulates in blood plasma. This is the principal circulating form meant by albumin in clinical measurements.
Globulins : A diverse group of blood proteins that includes antibodies, transport proteins, and complement components. Unlike the globulin group, albumin is a single major protein and the chief contributor to plasma oncotic pressure.
Protein binding : The reversible association of proteins with other molecules through noncovalent interactions. Albumin binds diverse compounds, affecting their distribution and availability in blood.
Hypoalbuminemia : An abnormally low concentration of albumin in blood. It can result from reduced production, protein loss, inflammation, or dilution.
Hepatocyte : The main functional cell type of the liver, responsible for many metabolic and synthetic functions. Hepatocytes produce and secrete most circulating albumin.
Immunoglobulin : An antibody protein produced by B cells that recognizes specific antigens. Immunoglobulins specialize in immune recognition, whereas albumin mainly transports ligands and retains fluid.
Free fatty acids : Fatty acids not esterified to glycerol or another molecule, circulating largely bound to proteins. Albumin carries free fatty acids from adipose tissue to other organs.
Albumin infusion : Intravenous administration of a purified human albumin solution. Clinicians use it in selected settings to expand circulating volume or replace losses.
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