ALBUMINS Meaning and
Definition
-
Albumins are a group of water-soluble proteins that are found in the blood plasma, lymph, and other bodily fluids. They are the most abundant proteins in these fluids and play crucial roles in maintaining various physiological processes in the body. Albumins are primarily synthesized in the liver and are subsequently distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream.
In terms of their biochemical structure, albumins are characterized by their globular shape and their ability to bind and transport various substances. They consist of a single polypeptide chain with a molecular weight of approximately 65,000 Daltons. This polypeptide chain is folded into distinct domains that contribute to the overall structure and function of the albumin molecule.
Albumins have diverse functions within the body. One of the key roles is their involvement in maintaining colloid osmotic pressure, which regulates the distribution of fluids between the bloodstream and tissues. They also act as carriers for hormones, fatty acids, drugs, and other molecules, facilitating their transport through the bloodstream. Additionally, albumins are involved in buffering pH levels, regulating antioxidant activity, and modulating immune responses.
An alteration in albumin levels can indicate certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, or inflammatory processes. Albumin testing is commonly performed to assess a person's nutritional status, evaluate liver and kidney function, and monitor overall health.
Common Misspellings for ALBUMINS
- zlbumins
- slbumins
- wlbumins
- qlbumins
- akbumins
- apbumins
- aobumins
- alvumins
- alnumins
- alhumins
- algumins
- albymins
- albhmins
- albjmins
- albimins
- alb8mins
- alb7mins
- albunins
- albukins
- albujins
Etymology of ALBUMINS
The word "albumins" is derived from the Latin term "albumen", which means "white of an egg" or "egg white". This is because albumins were originally discovered and named in egg white, as they were one of the most abundant proteins found in this substance. Over time, the term "albumins" has come to refer to a group of proteins that are water-soluble and coagulate upon heating. These proteins are found not only in egg white but also in various animal and plant tissues.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
