From the Guidelines
No, albumin is not synthetic, it is a human-derived blood product manufactured from donated human plasma 1.
Key Points
- Albumin is used broadly in hospitalized patients, as well as in outpatients with complications of cirrhosis 1.
- It is manufactured from large volumes of plasma and is expensive 1.
- The use of albumin has been studied in numerous, large, well-designed, randomized controlled clinical trials in multiple patient populations; the data show few applications of albumin that improve patient outcomes 1.
- In some cases, clinical grade serum albumin of human origin is used, such as in the development of nanoparticles, to avoid contamination and ensure safety 1.
- Albumin can be associated with adverse consequences, including fluid overload, hypotension, hemodilution requiring RBC transfusion, anaphylaxis, and peripheral gangrene from dilution of natural anticoagulants 1.
Albumin Production
- Albumin is derived from human plasma, which is donated by individuals 1.
- The production process involves the collection, testing, and processing of plasma to create a safe and effective product 1.
From the Research
Albumin Synthesis
- Albumin is synthesized in the liver, as stated in the study 2, which highlights its importance in human physiology and pathophysiology.
- The liver's synthetic process is modified by various interrelated factors, including oncotic pressure, malnutrition, toxins, and trauma, as mentioned in the study 3.
- Hormones also play a role in regulating albumin synthesis and degradation, as discussed in the study 4.
Biological Functions of Albumin
- Albumin has several important biological functions, including maintaining appropriate osmotic pressure, binding and transporting various substances, and neutralizing free radicals, as described in the study 5.
- It is also involved in the regulation of various physiological processes, including the transport of hormones, drugs, and other substances, as mentioned in the study 2.
Albumin as a Biomaterial
- Albumin can be used as a biomaterial in regenerative medicine, with potential applications in tissue engineering and implantable devices, as discussed in the study 6.
- Its anticoagulant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a useful material for enhancing the biocompatibility of implants and promoting stem cell adhesion and proliferation, as mentioned in the study 6.