What Is The Major Functions Of The Plasma Proteins In The Blood?

Functions of the plasma proteins include :

• Intravascular osmotic effect. This is important in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance and is discussed more fully in those sessions.
  
• Contributes to the viscosity of the plasma
  
• Transport of insoluble substances around the body by allowing them to bind to protein molecules.
  
• Protein reserve for the body
  
• Clotting this is discussed further in sessions on wounds and wound healing
  
• Inflammatory response again discussed further in the sessions on the immune system.
  
• Protection from infection the gamma globulins function as antibodies and their role is discussed more fully in the sessions on the immune system.
  
• Maintenance of the acid-base balance. Again this is explored in more detail in the session on fluid and electrolyte balance.

The blood plasma contains inorganic ions which are important in regulating cell function and maintaining homeostasis.