What happens to saturated albumins?

  • Thread starter jayadds
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In summary, saturated albumins, which are proteins found in the blood plasma, have important functions in maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting substances in the body. When saturated, albumins can lead to a decrease in osmotic pressure and affect the transport of substances throughout the body, potentially causing health problems such as edema. Measuring albumin saturation through a blood test is possible, and it can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sometimes through medical treatments.
  • #1
jayadds
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Hi all,

I know that albumins function as a transport protein for drugs, hormones and fatty acids. My question is, what happens to these albumins when they are saturated? Do they slowly release their bound components over time? Or are the albumins eliminated from the body so that new ones are produced to replace them?

Many thanks,
Jay
 
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  • #3
If they didn't release what's bound to them they couldn't be transporters!
 

What happens to saturated albumins?

Saturated albumins are proteins found in the blood plasma that play a crucial role in maintaining osmotic pressure and transporting various substances in the body. When albumins become saturated, they can have several effects on the body.

1. How does saturation affect the osmotic pressure in the body?

When albumins become saturated, they are unable to bind to more substances such as hormones, fatty acids, and drugs. This leads to a decrease in osmotic pressure, which can result in fluid buildup in tissues and potentially lead to edema.

2. Does saturation affect the transport of substances?

Yes, when albumins are saturated, they are unable to transport substances as effectively as they normally would. This can lead to a decrease in the distribution of important molecules throughout the body, potentially affecting various bodily functions.

3. Can saturated albumins lead to health problems?

Yes, if albumins become saturated, it can lead to various health problems, such as edema, decreased transport of substances, and imbalances in osmotic pressure. This can also affect the functioning of other organs and systems in the body.

4. How can albumin saturation be measured?

Albumin saturation can be measured through a blood test. The level of saturation is determined by comparing the amount of albumin to the amount of other substances it is expected to bind to, such as calcium or fatty acids.

5. Is there a way to prevent albumin saturation?

Albumin saturation can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, which can help regulate the levels of substances in the body that albumin binds to. In some cases, medical treatments may also be necessary to prevent or manage albumin saturation.

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