Albumin
Function
Binds water, Ca(2+), Na(+), K(+), fatty acids, hormones, bilirubin and drugs. Its main function is the regulation of the colloidal osmotic pressure of blood. Major zinc transporter in plasma, typically binds about 80% of all plasma zinc (By similarity). Major calcium and magnesium transporter in plasma, binds approximately 45% of circulating calcium and magnesium in plasma (Probable). Potentially has more than two calcium-binding sites and might additionally bind calcium in a non-specific manner (PubMed:22677715). The shared binding site between zinc and calcium at residue Asp-272 suggests a crosstalk between zinc and calcium transport in the blood (Probable). The rank order of affinity is zinc > calcium > magnesium (Probable). Binds to the bacterial siderophore enterobactin and inhibits enterobactin-mediated iron uptake of E.coli, and may thereby limit the utilization of iron and growth of enteric bacteria such as E.coli (PubMed:6234017). Does not prevent iron uptake by the bacterial siderophore aerobactin (PubMed:6234017).
Post-translational modifications
Phosphorylated by FAM20C in the extracellular medium.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the ALB/AFP/VDB family.
Tissue Specificity
Plasma.
Cellular localization
- Secreted
Alternative names
Albumin, BSA, ALB