Plasma Proteins: Functions & Importance in Blood Health

Plasma proteins are any of the proteins found in blood plasma, which is a pale yellow fluid of the blood. Plasma protein composes three major groups of proteins--albumin, fibrinogen and globulins; each of them has separate functions.

Intravascular Osmotic Effect

• Plasma proteins play an important role in the regulation of the body̵7;s osmotic pressure. They also help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the blood, thus keeping the body̵7;s functions working properly. Degeneration of plasma proteins can cause health problems such as distended blood vessels and a feeble immune system.

Blood Clotting

• Plasma proteins, especially fibrinogen, are associated with wound healing and blood clotting. Albumin is primarily involved in the circulatory transport of insoluble substances, which combine with protein molecules.

Immune System

• Plasma proteins such as albumin strengthen our immune system to resist a number of diseases and viral and bacterial infections.

Protein Reserve

• Plasma proteins can be deemed as a protein reserve for the body. They also supply viscosity to the blood plasma.

Medical Products

• Apart from their contribution in the body̵7;s systems, plasma proteins also can be used in manufacturing a number of drugs and medicines. Plasma proteins in medical products are often synthesized in the laboratory or derived from donor plasma.