Plasma, the liquid component of blood, is a vital transport medium carrying numerous essential substances throughout the body. Its primary function is to deliver crucial elements while simultaneously removing waste products.
Key Components Carried by Plasma:
Plasma's role as a transporter is multifaceted. It efficiently carries:
- Nutrients: Plasma transports vital nutrients absorbed from the digestive system to cells throughout the body. This includes glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids.
- Hormones: These chemical messengers, produced by endocrine glands, are carried by plasma to target organs and tissues, regulating various bodily functions.
- Proteins: Plasma contains various proteins, including albumin (maintaining osmotic pressure), globulins (involved in immunity), and fibrinogen (essential for blood clotting).
- Water and Salts (Electrolytes): Maintaining proper fluid balance and electrolyte levels is crucial for cellular function. Plasma carries water and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride.
- Enzymes: These proteins catalyze biochemical reactions, and plasma transports them to their sites of action.
- Waste Products: Metabolic waste products, such as carbon dioxide and urea, are transported by plasma to excretory organs (kidneys and lungs) for removal from the body.
The reference material states that plasma carries water, salts, and enzymes. This information aligns perfectly with the broader list of substances transported by plasma, highlighting its critical role in maintaining homeostasis.
