Albumin is the protein of the highest concentration in serum or plasma. Albumin transports many small molecules in the blood (for example, bilirubin, calcium, progesterone, and drugs). It is also of prime importance in maintaining the osmotic pressure of the blood. Albumin is synthesized by the liver. Albumin performs many functions including maintaining the "osmotic pressure" that causes fluid to remain within the blood stream instead of leaking out into the tissues. Liver disease, kidney disease, and malnutrition are the major causes of low albumin. A diseased liver produces insufficient albumin. Diseased kidneys sometimes lose large amounts of albumin into the urine faster than the liver can produce it (this is termed nephrotic syndrome). Plasma albumin concentration is an important indicator of nutritional status, and low concentrations pre-surgery increase the risk of post-operative wound dehiscence, seroma formation and infection. Albumin levels are also dependent on the state of hydration of the body. A person that is dehydrated will have an artificially low albumin level. This returns to normal when the dehydration is corrected. Albumin fluctuates so widely because it is very sensitive to changes in hydration of the body.
Applications:
Suitable for use in ELISA, Western Blot, Flow Cytometry and Immunofluorescence. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilutions:
ELISA: 0.1-1ug/ml.
Western Blot: 1-5ug/ml (ECL).
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.