Overview of Plasma Proteins and Their Functions

Percentage of plasma proteins that is albumin

Approximately 60%

Production site of albumin

In the liver

Main function of albumin

Maintains osmotic pressure; transports substances; pH buffer

Subtypes of globulins

Alpha, Beta, and Gamma

Origin of alpha globulins

Liver

Function of alpha globulins

Transport lipids, vitamins, hormones; enzyme inhibitors

Origin of beta globulins

Liver

Function of beta globulins

Transport iron and lipids; aids immune response

Origin of gamma globulins

Plasma cells (B lymphocytes)

Function of gamma globulins

Serve as antibodies and provide immune defense

Percentage of plasma proteins that is globulin

Approximately 36% (total of alpha, beta, and gamma)

Percentage of plasma proteins that is fibrinogen

Approximately 4%

Production site of fibrinogen

In the liver

Function of fibrinogen

Forms fibrin during blood clotting