Proteins By Emily Hodgson and Joshua Bower
Primary structure The amino acid sequence
Secondary structure Alpha helix Beta sheet
Tertiary structure Folding of the protein
Quaternary structure Multiple polypeptides e.g. collagen
ALBUMIN Properties Functions Hypoalbuminaemia Hyperalbuminaemia Normal values = g/dL 50% of protein content Negatively charged Produced in the liver only Oncotic pressure Transport - hormones, bilirubin, free fatty acids, exogenous drugs, metals, ions pH buffer Negative acute phase protein Competitively binds Ca ions Liver disease (cirrhosis) Nephrotic syndrome Excess loss in bowel (protein-losing enteropathy, e.g., Ménétrier's disease) Burns (plasma loss in the absence of skin barrier) Redistribution (hemodilution [as in pregnancy], increased vascular permeability or decreased lymphatic clearance) Acute disease states Protein energy malabsorption Dehydration High protein diet
Hypoalbuminaemia signs and symptoms Leukonychia Oedema and ascites (decreased oncotic pressure) Jaundice N.b. give lower doses of drugs as more will be free in plasm