Albumin
 
  • 60% to 80% of plasma proteins
 
  • Smallest in size
 
  • Produced by the liver
 
  • Maintain blood volume and pressure due to osmotic effect; act as carriers for other substances.
Globulins
 
  • Grouped into three subgroups: alpha, beta and gamma
 
  • Alpha and Beta produced by liver; function in transporting lipids and fat-soluble vitamins
 
  • Gamma are antibodies produced by lymphocytes and function in immunity
Fibrinogen
 
  • Accounts for about 4% of Plasma proteins
 
  • Produced by liver
 
  • Important as a clotting factor
 
  • On clotting, fibrinogen is converted into insoluble fibrin. Fluid from clotted blood (Serum) is plasma lacking fibrinogen.