What is a function of humam blood?
Transportation of Oxygen and Nutrients: Blood transports oxygen from the lungs to all tissues and organs in the body. Additionally, it carries essential nutrients, such as glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids, to cells for growth, repair, and energy production.
Removal of Waste Products: As a byproduct of cellular metabolism, waste products such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and other nitrogenous wastes are produced. Blood helps in the removal of these waste products from tissues and transports them to the lungs (for CO2) and kidneys (for other waste products) for elimination from the body.
Regulation of Body Temperature: Blood plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable body temperature. When the body is too warm, blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate (expand), increasing blood flow and promoting heat loss. Conversely, when the body needs to conserve heat, these blood vessels constrict (narrow), reducing heat dissipation.
Protection and Defense: Blood contains specialized cells and molecules involved in protecting the body against infection and disease. White blood cells (leukocytes) help identify and destroy harmful microorganisms and foreign substances. Platelets and clotting factors participate in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. Antibodies and other immune molecules in blood assist in recognizing and neutralizing potential threats.
Hormonal Regulation: Blood serves as a transport system for hormones, which are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands. Hormones travel through the bloodstream to target cells and tissues, where they regulate various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood.
Communication and Signaling: Blood contains signaling molecules, such as cytokines and growth factors, which facilitate communication between different cells, tissues, and organs. These molecules help coordinate various bodily functions and responses.