Albumin, a vital protein found in blood plasma, is primarily produced by a specific type of cell located within the liver.
Based on the provided information, the exact answer to the question "What cells produce albumin?" is:
Hepatocytes in the liver produce albumin.
Understanding Albumin Production
Albumin is a protein synthesized in significant quantities to maintain various bodily functions, including fluid balance and transport of molecules. The primary sites responsible for this synthesis are specialized cells within the liver.
According to the reference:
- Albumin is a protein synthesized by hepatocytes in the liver.
- It is excreted in very high quantities into the blood.
- Minimal amounts of albumin are also stored in the liver.
This makes the liver, specifically its hepatocytes, the central hub for albumin synthesis.
Key Facts About Albumin
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Producer | Hepatocytes |
| Production Organ | The Liver |
| Blood Concentration | Constitutes about half of total plasma protein (3.4 to 5.4 g/dL) |
| Synthesis Rate | Synthesized and excreted in very high quantities |
| Storage | Minimal amounts stored in the liver |
Albumin constitutes a large portion of the protein content in the plasma, which is the liquid component of blood without the blood cells. Its high concentration and constant synthesis by hepatocytes underscore the liver's crucial role in protein metabolism and overall circulatory health.
