Question

What is the role of serum proteins re: to body fluids?

Answer 1

Serum proteins are also known as plasma or blood proteins. They are complex mix of proteins found in the plasma serving multiple functions ie. transport of lipids, hormones, vitamins and metals through the circulatory system.

Role of some serum proteins:

Prealbumin protein: is a thyroid hormone binding protein which transports thyroxine from the blood stream to brain.

Alpha 1 antitrypsin protein: is a serine protease inhibitor which neutralizes trypsin that has leaked from the digestive system.

Alpha fetoprotein: is the most abundant plasma protein found in the human fetus. Plasma levels decrease rapidly after birth but it begins decreasing prenatally starting at the end of the first trimester.

Alpha 2 macroglobulin protein: is a multifunctional protein. It possesses a transport function for zinc and is a proteinase inhibitor that controls the clotting and fibrinolytic system .

Gamma globulin protein: are a class of globulins which includes immuno globulins. Gamma globulin injections have been shown to temporary boost a patient's immunity against disease.

Haptoglobin protein: binds free haemoglobin released from erythrocytes with high affinity and thereby inhibits its oxidative activity.

C- reactive protein: CRP in the blood can rise in response to inflammation ,it binds phophocholine expressed in the surface of dead or dying cells in order to activate the complement system.

Transferrin protein: is a plasma protein that transports iron through blood to liver, spleen and bone marrow .