Chapter 12: Proteins

Plasma proteins consist of albumin and globulins. Albumin is typically the most abundant plasma protein in health and is involved in maintenance of oncotic pressure and transport of many molecules. Globulins are a diverse group of more than 1000 proteins comprising all plasma proteins except albumin. Most of the plasma proteins are produced in the liver, with the exception of immunoglobulins, which are produced by plasma cells. The major difference between plasma and serum protein is the lack of fibrinogen in serum due to its consumption in the formation of a blood clot.