Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and found in the blood. It serves several important functions in the body, including:
Maintaining Oncotic Pressure: Albumin helps to maintain the osmotic balance of blood, ensuring that fluid stays within blood vessels and does not leak into surrounding tissues excessively. This is crucial for maintaining proper blood volume and preventing edema (swelling).
Transporting Substances: Albumin acts as a carrier for various substances in the blood, including hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin (a waste product of red blood cell breakdown), drugs, and other molecules. By binding to these substances, albumin helps transport them through the bloodstream to their target tissues or organs.
Buffering pH: Albumin contributes to the blood's buffering capacity, helping to maintain its pH within a narrow range. This is important for ensuring proper functioning of enzymes and other biochemical processes in the body.
Antioxidant Properties: Albumin has antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage.
Measurement of albumin levels in the blood is commonly performed as part of routine blood tests. Low levels of albumin (hypoalbuminemia) can indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, inflammation, or other medical conditions. High levels of albumin are less common but can occur in conditions such as dehydration or certain kidney diseases.
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