Protein Basics and Plasma Proteins

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering protein structures, functions, plasma protein fractions, and related clinical correlates.

Primary Protein Structure

The specific sequence of amino acids in a protein chain.

Secondary Protein Structure

The arrangement of a protein into structures known as $\alpha$-helix or $\beta$-sheet.

Tertiary Protein Structure

The three-dimensional (3D) folding of a single protein molecule.

Quaternary Protein Structure

Multiple protein chains grouped together, such as Hemoglobin.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein; it maintains oncotic pressure and carries drugs, hormones, and calcium.

High Albumin

Usually caused by dehydration.

Low Albumin

Can be caused by liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition.

Prealbumin

A marker of nutrition that transports $T3$ and $T4$.

Low Prealbumin

Associated with poor nutrition and inflammation.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin

An $\alpha 1$ globulin that prevents neutrophil elastase from destroying lung tissue; low levels lead to early emphysema/COPD.

Haptoglobin

An $\alpha 2$ globulin that binds free hemoglobin; levels decrease during intravascular hemolysis.

Transferrin

A $\beta$ globulin that acts as an iron transporter, often referred to as the Iron Taxi.

Iron Deficiency Lab Findings

Characterized by decreased Iron, decreased Ferritin, increased Transferrin, and increased TIBC.

Chronic Disease Iron Findings

Characterized by decreased Iron, decreased Transferrin, and increased Ferritin.

Immunoglobulins

The $\gamma$ fraction globulins that act as antibodies; they increase during infection and decrease in immunodeficiency.

Protein Electrophoresis (SPEP)

A method to separate proteins in the following order: Albumin, $\alpha 1$, $\alpha 2$, $\beta$, $\gamma$.

Total Protein Normal Range

$$6.5-8.3\,g/dL$$

Hyperproteinemia

An abnormally high total protein level, usually due to dehydration.

Hypoproteinemia

An abnormally low total protein level caused by conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition.

Actin and Myosin

Proteins responsible for muscle contraction.

Insulin

A specific protein that functions as a hormone.