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→Composition
Plasma proteins are large molecules of which there are four main types, albumin, Globulin, fibrinogen and prothrombin. Albumin maintains oncotic pressure within the blood vessels and hence blood volume and blood pressure. Globulins which are produced by lymphocytes act in immune reactions and fibrinogen and prothrombin are required in order for clotting to occur.
Plasma proteins are large molecules of which there are four main types, albumin, Globulin, fibrinogen and prothrombin. Albumin maintains oncotic pressure within the blood vessels and hence blood volume and blood pressure. Globulins which are produced by lymphocytes act in immune reactions and fibrinogen and prothrombin are required in order for clotting to occur.
Nutrients in solution include the breakdown products of digestion, amino acids, glucose and fatty acids.
Mineral Salts in solution include sodium,potassium, calcium,chloride, bicarbonate, sulphate and phosphate. The salts are ions which act to maintain the PH of the blood at 7.4.
Gases in solution include oxygen carbon dioxide. Oxygen is carried mainly by the red blood cells but a small amount is carried dissolved in the plasma. Carbon dioxide is carried by the plasma as carbonic acid and bicarbonate ions.
Waste products carried by the plasma include urea and creatinine which are nitrogenous waste. They are taken to the liver and kidneys where they are removed via the bile or urine.