Protiens & SPE

Question 1

Where are most proteins synthesized

Answer 1

The liver

Question 2

Where are immunoglobulins synthesized

Answer 2

Plasma cells

Question 3

Albumin

Answer 3

It is the major plasma protein
Major protein of many extra cellular fluids (CSF, interstitial fluid, urine, amniotic fluid )

45-50% or total protein

Produced in the liver

Highly water soluble

Question 4

What are the functions of proteins

Answer 4

Energy production 
Water distribution 
Structure 
Antibodies 
Transportation 
Acid/ base buffer

Question 5

Reasons for Hypoproteinemia

Answer 5

<63 g/L
Excess loss ( nephrotic syndrome, loss of blood) 

Decreased intake ( malnutrition, or intentional malabsorption)

Decreased synthesis( liver disease and immunodeficiency disorders )

Accelerated catabolism ( burns, trauma )

Question 6

Hyperpeoteinemia

Answer 6

> 84 g/L
Not as common as hypo

Dehydration (vomiting,diarrhea, excessive sweating )

Excessive production of globulins (multiple myeloma)

Question 7

Ways to measure protein

Answer 7

Refractometry ( quick, easy,not very accurate )

Biuret

• cupric (Cu+++) ions in an alkaline pH
• sodium potassium tartrate prevents precipitation of cupric ions
• potassium iodide prevents reduction of cupric ions
• not sensitive enough to measure small amounts of protein

Dye binding ( BCG)

Electrophoresis

Question 8

Specimen types for Pretoria measurements

Answer 8

Serum
- lacks fibrinogen ( a glycoproteins required for coagulation)

Plasma
-contains fibrinogen

Urine
} these 2 have to be concentrated
CSF

Question 9

Functions of albumin

Answer 9

Managing osmotic pressure in both the vascular and extra vascular spaces