Ümumi zülal

15 Azn

General Information:
Proteins are essential macromolecules composed of amino acid chains, playing critical roles in nearly all biological processes. They serve as structural components, enzymes, hormones, and transport molecules. Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are either synthesized by the body (non-essential amino acids) or obtained through diet (essential amino acids).

Functions of Proteins:

  1. Structural Role:

    • Proteins like collagen and keratin provide structural integrity to tissues such as skin, hair, and nails.
  2. Enzymatic Function:

    • Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions essential for metabolism.
  3. Transport and Storage:

    • Hemoglobin (transports oxygen), ferritin (stores iron), and other proteins facilitate the movement and storage of critical substances.
  4. Immune Response:

    • Antibodies are proteins that defend the body against pathogens.
  5. Hormonal Regulation:

    • Insulin, a protein hormone, regulates blood glucose levels.
  • Sample Type: Venous blood.
  • The test should be conducted after 8–14 hours of fasting.
  • Alternatively, it can be performed 4 hours after consuming a light meal.
  • Avoid physical and emotional stress, as well as alcohol consumption, before the test.

Indications for Testing:

  • Acute and chronic infections.
  • Collagenoses (connective tissue diseases).
  • Liver and kidney pathologies.
  • Oncological diseases.
  • Malnutrition.
  • Thermal burns.

Elevated Total Protein (Hyperproteinemia):

  • Dehydration: Reduced plasma volume due to fluid loss.
  • Infections: Acute or chronic processes causing increased protein synthesis.
  • Autoimmune Pathologies: Conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Cancer: Elevated protein levels in multiple myeloma or other malignancies.

Decreased Total Protein (Hypoproteinemia):

  • Reduced Protein Intake: Insufficient dietary protein.
  • Malabsorption Syndrome: Poor nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Liver Diseases: Impaired protein synthesis due to liver dysfunction (e.g., cirrhosis).
  • Increased Protein Loss:
    • Acute and Chronic Starvation: Reduced availability of amino acids.
    • Nephrotic Syndrome or Glomerulonephritis: Protein loss through urine.
    • Severe Burns: Loss of plasma proteins through damaged skin.

Accelerated Protein Catabolism:

  • Prolonged Hyperthermia: Fever increasing protein breakdown.
  • Trauma: Physical injuries leading to increased metabolic demands.
  • Thyrotoxicosis: Overactive thyroid accelerating protein metabolism.
  • Intense Physical Activity: Excessive exercise depleting protein reserves.
  • Cancer: Increased protein breakdown in malignancies.