Albumin

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈæl.bjʊ.mɪn/

Definitions

• A water-soluble protein found in egg white, milk, blood, and other animal and plant tissues.
• Refers specifically to serum albumin, a major protein in human blood plasma.

Usage Examples

• Albumin plays a critical role in maintaining the osmotic pressure of the blood.
• The egg white contains a high concentration of albumin.
• Doctors often measure albumin levels to assess liver and kidney function.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "albumen," meaning "egg white," which in turn originates from "albus," meaning "white."

Synonyms

• Protein
• Serum albumin
• Globulin (related protein type)

Antonyms

• Lipid
• Carbohydrate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "albumin" is pronounced with stress on the first syllable: /ˈæl.bju.mɪn/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is similar but may sound slightly softer: /ˈæl.bjʊ.mɪn/.

Historical Usage

The term "albumin" has been used since the early 19th century to describe the protein found in various biological fluids and tissues. Its discovery was crucial for understanding bodily functions and for advancements in biochemistry and medicine.

Cultural Nuances

Albumin has a significant role in medical diagnostics and nutrition. For instance, low albumin levels in the blood are often associated with malnutrition or chronic illnesses. The protein is also widely studied in food science and animal husbandry.

More Information

Albumin is essential for maintaining osmotic pressure in the blood, transporting hormones, vitamins, and drugs, and serving as a protein reserve for the body. Beyond its biological significance, albumin is used in laboratory and industrial applications, including the production of vaccines and as a reagent in research.