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What Types of Materials Dissolve in Plasma?

Plasma is a yellowish fluid that, when combined with platelets and red and white blood cells, makes up the blood found in your veins. Plasma is 90 percent water, but the other 10 percent is composed of various dissolved materials creating the properties of the life-giving liquid.

  1. Proteins

    • Proteins represent a majority of the 10 percent of dissolved materials present in plasma. These proteins are responsible for creating oncotic pressure, keeping fluid inside the blood cells and balancing hydrostatic pressure. Three main types of proteins are found in plasma: albumins, globulins and fibrinogen. Albumins are the most abundant and maintain osmotic balance in the blood. Globulins act as a mode of transportation for other molecules in the blood. Fibrinogens help in blood clotting.

    Gases

    • Several gases also dissolve in plasma, including oxygen, though it is not incredibly abundant. Carbon dioxide is more prevalent in plasma, and it helps to regulate the pH balance of blood. Various other gases, such as nitrogen, are also present in human plasma but typically serve no major function.

    Nutrients

    • Plasma also carries various nutrients throughout our bodies. Small organic molecules are dissolved into the plasma to produce energy and create new macromolecules. Vitamins are also present in plasma, and serve many individual functions. Lipids travel through the plasma, as well, but they are accompanied by lipoproteins that are also used to produce energy.

    Wastes

    • Another function of plasma is to carry waste through our system. These wastes, which need to be removed from the body, are often the result of breaking down nitrogen-containing compounds. The plasma carries waste molecules to the kidneys, where they are removed from the body through the urinary system.

    Hormones

    • Various hormones are also carried through the blood. Some of these hormones are composed of proteins, while others are made up of steroids or organic materials, such as peptides or amines. The functions of these hormones are varied depending on their make-up.

    Electrolytes

    • Electrolytes are also carried through the body in plasma. They are simply positive ions of simple elements, such as sodium or potassium. These electrolytes are utilized in maintaining pH balance and regulating osmotic balance.

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