Which term is a plasma protein that helps maintain blood volume and osmotic balance?

Which term is a plasma protein that helps maintain blood volume and osmotic balance?

• A. Albumin
• B. Angina pectoris
• C. Anemia
• D. Arteriosclerosis

Answer: (A)

Albumin is the main plasma protein responsible for maintaining blood volume and osmotic balance. It draws water back into the bloodstream from the surrounding tissues through its oncotic (colloid osmotic) pressure, helping keep fluid inside vessels and preventing edema. It’s produced by the liver and also serves as a carrier for various substances. The other terms describe conditions or diseases (chest pain from heart ischemia, low red blood cell mass, and stiffening of arteries) and are not plasma proteins involved in regulating fluid balance.

Albumin is the main plasma protein responsible for maintaining blood volume and osmotic balance. It draws water back into the bloodstream from the surrounding tissues through its oncotic (colloid osmotic) pressure, helping keep fluid inside vessels and preventing edema. It’s produced by the liver and also serves as a carrier for various substances. The other terms describe conditions or diseases (chest pain from heart ischemia, low red blood cell mass, and stiffening of arteries) and are not plasma proteins involved in regulating fluid balance.