Plasma

Definition

Plasma is the liquid component of blood, making up about 55% of its total volume. It is a pale yellow fluid that serves as a medium for transporting blood cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. Plasma plays a vital role in maintaining blood pressure and volume, while also providing essential proteins for blood clotting and immune function.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plasma consists of about 90% water, with the remaining 10% containing proteins, electrolytes, hormones, nutrients, and waste products.
2. The main proteins found in plasma include albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, each serving different functions such as maintaining osmotic pressure and aiding in immune response.
3. Plasma is crucial for transporting nutrients like glucose, amino acids, and vitamins to cells while also carrying waste products like urea to the kidneys for excretion.
4. Plasma helps regulate body temperature by absorbing and distributing heat throughout the body.
5. The study of plasma and its components can lead to important medical advances, including blood transfusions and treatments for various diseases.

Review Questions

• How does plasma contribute to the transportation of substances within the bloodstream?
  • Plasma plays a key role in transporting a variety of substances throughout the body. It carries red blood cells that deliver oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. Additionally, plasma transports nutrients from the digestive system to cells, hormones from glands to target organs, and waste products to excretory organs. This efficient transport system is crucial for maintaining overall bodily function and homeostasis.
• Discuss the significance of plasma proteins in maintaining bodily functions.
  • Plasma proteins are essential for several bodily functions. For instance, albumin helps maintain oncotic pressure, preventing fluid from leaking out of blood vessels. Globulins are involved in immune responses by transporting antibodies that fight infections. Fibrinogen is vital for blood clotting, ensuring that wounds heal properly. The balance and function of these proteins are crucial for maintaining health and preventing disorders.
• Evaluate how changes in plasma composition can impact overall health and disease states.
  • Changes in plasma composition can have significant implications for overall health. For example, decreased levels of albumin can lead to edema due to reduced oncotic pressure, while elevated levels of certain globulins may indicate chronic inflammation or infection. An imbalance of electrolytes can disrupt nerve signaling and muscle function. Thus, monitoring plasma composition is essential for diagnosing and managing various health conditions.

Related terms

Erythrocytes: Red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.

Platelets: Small cell fragments that play a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing by aggregating at injury sites.

Electrolytes: Minerals in plasma that carry an electric charge, important for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.