Albumin Depletion Kit

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Albumin also known as ALB is a major plasma protein with a molecular mass of approximately 66.5 kDa. It predominantly gets synthesized in the liver and found abundantly in blood plasma. Albumin serves multiple functions including maintaining osmotic pressure and acting as a carrier protein for various endogenous substances like hormones fatty acids and bilirubin.

Biological function summary

Albumin plays a critical role in transporting small molecules like metabolites and drugs through the circulatory system. It is not a part of any complex but functions independently to bind transport and release various ligands. Albumin's affinity for hydrophobic molecules makes it essential for they to be solubilized in blood for proper metabolism and excretion.

Pathways

More than five binding sites on albumin facilitate its role in the fatty acid metabolism and renin-angiotensin system pathways. In fatty acid metabolism albumin interacts with transport proteins carrying fatty acids to tissues for energy production. Additionally during the renin-angiotensin system albumin modulates blood pressure through its interaction with angiotensin II which can influence vasoconstriction.

Associated diseases and disorders

Researchers link albumin with nephrotic syndrome and liver cirrhosis. In nephrotic syndrome low levels of albumin (albumin low) can cause edema due to imbalanced osmotic pressure. In liver cirrhosis a reduction in albumin synthesis signifies liver damage. Albumin's interaction with proteins like angiotensin II correlates with complications such as hypertension further establishing the protein's role in health and disease contexts.