9. Blood plasma contains three types of proteins:fibrinogen, albumin, and globulin. What functions do these proteins perform?

Blood plasma contains three main types of proteins: fibrinogen, albumin, and globulin. Each of these proteins performs specific functions in the body:<br /><br />1. **Fibrinogen**: This protein is essential for blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure that traps blood cells, leading to the formation of a clot. This process helps to stop bleeding and initiates the healing process.<br /><br />2. **Albumin**: Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma and plays a crucial role in maintaining the osmotic pressure of the blood. It helps to keep water within the blood vessels by exerting osmotic pressure, which prevents excessive fluid from leaking into the surrounding tissues. Additionally, albumin acts as a carrier protein, transporting various substances such as hormones, vitamins, and drugs throughout the body.<br /><br />3. **Globulin**: Globulins are a group of proteins that perform several important functions in the body. They include antibodies, which are produced by the immune system to fight infections and foreign substances. Globulins also play a role in transporting lipids (fats) and metal ions, as well as participating in blood clotting processes.<br /><br />In summary, fibrinogen is involved in blood clotting, albumin maintains osmotic pressure and serves as a carrier protein, and globulins perform various functions including immune response, lipid transport, and blood clotting.