Functions of the plasma proteins include :
- Intravascular osmotic effect. This is important in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and is discussed more fully in those sessions.
- Contributes to the viscosity of the plasma
- Transport of insoluble substances around the body by allowing them to bind to protein molecules.
- Protein reserve for the body
- Clotting this is discussed further in sessions on wounds and wound healing
- Inflammatory response again discussed further in the sessions on the immune system.
- Protection from infection the gamma globulins function as antibodies and their role is discussed more fully in the sessions on the immune system.
- Maintenance of the acid-base balance. Again this is explored in more detail in the session on fluid and electrolyte balance.
- Blood plasma proteins like albumin functions as carrier proteins that help in the translocation of different biomolecules in body.
- Blood plasma contains the protease inhibitor enzymes like alpha-1 antitrypsin that help in the reduced proteolytic activity in the blood.
The blood plasma contains inorganic ions which are important in regulating cell function and maintaining homeostasis.
