Human serum albumin

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Human Serum Albumin

Human serum albumin (HSA) /hyuːmən sɪrəm ælbjʊmɪn/ is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma. It is produced in the liver and constitutes about half of the blood serum protein.

Etymology

The term "albumin" (Latin: albus, white) refers to a family of proteins that are water-soluble and moderately soluble in concentrated salt solutions. "Serum" refers to the clear liquid that separates from the blood when it clots.

Function

Human serum albumin functions primarily as a carrier protein for steroids, fatty acids, and thyroid hormones in the body and is also responsible for maintaining the osmotic pressure that allows the body's compartments to retain their fluid volume.

Related Terms

  • Albuminuria: A condition in which albumin is present in the urine, typically a sign of kidney disease.
  • Hypoalbuminemia: A condition characterized by low levels of albumin in the blood, often due to malnutrition, liver disease, or increased protein loss.
  • Hyperalbuminemia: A condition characterized by high levels of albumin in the blood, usually due to dehydration or high protein diet.

See Also

External links

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