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Why is plasma called the liquid of life? What magical functions does it have?
Plasma, this light amber liquid, plays an important role in our blood and has become an important cornerstone of life. Due to its composition and functions, plasma is often called the fluid of life. Not only does it keep our bodies running, it also plays a key role in delivering nutrients and regulating the internal environment.
For health, one of the main functions of plasma is to maintain the stability of the internal environment, also known as homeostasis.
The composition and characteristics of plasma
Plasma accounts for about 55% of the total blood volume in the human body and is mainly composed of water, dissolved proteins (such as albumin, globulin and fibrinogen), glucose, electrolytes, hormones, carbon dioxide and oxygen. Its youthful, liquid appearance is due to its primarily water content, which can be as high as 95%.
Function of plasma
One of the most important functions of plasma is transport. It is responsible for transporting most nutrients and waste in the human body, and plays a very important role in promoting the flow of white blood cells and antibodies. These immune components enable us to resist invasion by foreign pathogens.
The oxygen transport capacity of plasma allows cells to obtain the energy they need to survive, while carbon dioxide is taken to the lungs for elimination.
Proteins in plasma
Proteins in plasma can be roughly divided into three categories: albumin, globulin and fibrinogen. Albumin is responsible for protecting blood vessel pressure and maintaining the balance of body fluids. Globulin contains a variety of antibodies and is an important part of the immune system.
Clinical Application
The medical application of plasma cannot be ignored. Fresh frozen plasma is on the World Health Organization's Essential Medicines List because it is crucial in treating trauma and massive blood loss, and almost all medical institutions stock its samples. In addition, plasma separation technology (plasmapheresis) can be used to treat certain diseases by extracting plasma for reuse.
How to extract plasma
Plasma can be extracted through blood fractionation technology. This process involves adding an anticoagulant to the blood sample, then spinning it in a centrifuge to allow the blood cells to settle to the bottom of the test tube, and finally pouring out the plasma. This process is very important in rapid detection and biomarker testing.
The difference between plasma and serum
The difference between plasma and serum is that serum lacks coagulation factors, while these coagulation factors are present together with other components in plasma. Both have their own pros and cons based on medical testing needs.
Color and texture of plasma
Usually, the color of plasma is light yellow due to the presence of bilirubin, carotenoids and transferrin. In some cases, such as certain diseases or when taking certain medications, the color of the plasma may change, such as orange, green, etc.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of biomedical technology, the potential of plasma in the medical field continues to be tapped. From the development of synthetic plasma to the application of new detection technologies, it may be possible for more patients to benefit from this miraculous life liquid in the future.
Considering the great significance of plasma in our lives, have you ever thought about how to better protect and utilize this liquid resource of life?
