Chemical Name: Albumin

Common Name: Serum Albumin

CAS Number Example: 9048-46-8 (Human Serum Albumin)

Common Uses: Albumin is a protein that serves various essential functions in the body. It is primarily produced by the liver and found in blood plasma. Some of its key roles include:

• Osmotic Regulation: Albumin helps maintain proper fluid balance between blood vessels and tissues by exerting osmotic pressure, preventing the leakage of fluids into tissues.

• Transport: Albumin binds and transports various substances in the bloodstream, including hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin, and drugs.

• Buffering: Albumin contributes to the blood's pH buffering system, helping to maintain the body's acid-base balance.

• Binding of Molecules: Albumin can bind to and carry a wide range of molecules, including metals, ions, and other ligands.

Other Information: Albumin is one of the most abundant proteins in the blood plasma and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. It is essential for various physiological processes, including immune response, wound healing, and regulating colloidal osmotic pressure.

Albumin has medical and clinical applications as well. Human Serum Albumin (HSA) is used in medical treatments, such as maintaining blood volume in patients with low albumin levels, treating hypovolemia, and as a component in some pharmaceutical formulations.

Researchers and medical professionals often measure albumin levels in blood tests to assess overall health, nutritional status, and the functioning of the liver and kidneys.