Albumin is the most abundant plasma protein in humans. It accounts for ~60% of the total serum protein. Albumin plays important physiological roles, including maintenance of colloid osmotic pressure and binding of key substances such as long-chain fatty acids, bile acids, bilirubin, hematin, calcium, and magnesium. It has antioxidant and anticoagulant effects, acts as a carrier for nutritional factors and drugs, and is an effective plasma pH buffer. Serum albumin is a reliable prognostic indicator for morbidity and mortality, liver disease, nephritic syndrome, malnutrition, and protein-losing enteropathies. High levels are associated with dehydration.
Application
The BCP Albumin Assay Kit is designed to measure albumin directly without any pretreatment of samples, such as serum, plasma, urine, and biological preparations. The optimized formulation substantially reduces interference by other substances (lipids/other proteins) in the raw samples. It may also be used to measure effects of drugs and other compounds on albumin metabolism.
Biochem/physiol Actions
The procedure involves addition of a single working reagent and a 5 minute incubation. The optimized formulation has greatly enhanced reagent and signal stability. The kit utilizes bromocresol purple, which forms a colored complex specifically with albumin. The intensity of the color, measured at 610 nm, is directly proportional to the albumin concentration in the sample.
Features and Benefits
Compatible with high-throughput handling systems. Can be adapted for use with cuvettes.
