Serum albumin

Serum albumin is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma. It is produced in the liver and forms a large proportion of all plasma protein. The main function of albumin is to regulate the osmotic pressure of blood.

Structure

Human serum albumin is a single-chain protein consisting of about 585 amino acids with a molecular weight of approximately 66.5 kDa. It is a heart-shaped molecule that binds various substances, including hormones, fatty acids, and medications, which it transports in the blood.

Function

Serum albumin functions primarily as a carrier protein for steroids, fatty acids, and thyroid hormones in the blood and plays a major role in stabilizing extracellular fluid volume by contributing to osmotic pressure of plasma. It also acts as a plasma buffer, and participates in important physiological processes such as inflammation and antioxidant action.

Clinical significance

Abnormal serum albumin levels can be indicative of various medical conditions. Low levels can indicate nutritional deficiency, liver disease, and kidney disease. High levels can be indicative of severe dehydration or high protein diet. Serum albumin is often measured as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel during a medical examination.

See also

• Albumin
• Blood plasma
• Liver
• Protein

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