What Are the Major Functions of Plasma Proteins in the Blood?

Plasma proteins are any of the proteins found in blood plasma, which is a pale yellow fluid of the blood. Plasma protein composes three major groups of proteins--albumin, fibrinogen and globulins; each of them has separate functions.

Intravascular Osmotic Effect

• Plasma proteins play an important role in the regulation of the body’s osmotic pressure. They also help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the blood, thus keeping the body’s functions working properly. Degeneration of plasma proteins can cause health problems such as distended blood vessels and a feeble immune system.

Blood Clotting

• Plasma proteins, especially fibrinogen, are associated with wound healing and blood clotting. Albumin is primarily involved in the circulatory transport of insoluble substances, which combine with protein molecules.

Immune System

• Plasma proteins such as albumin strengthen our immune system to resist a number of diseases and viral and bacterial infections.

Protein Reserve

• Plasma proteins can be deemed as a protein reserve for the body. They also supply viscosity to the blood plasma.

Medical Products

• Apart from their contribution in the body’s systems, plasma proteins also can be used in manufacturing a number of drugs and medicines. Plasma proteins in medical products are often synthesized in the laboratory or derived from donor plasma.