The Physiologic and Clinical Significance of Plasma Proteins and Protein Metabolites

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Abstract
PROTEIN is an essential component of protoplasm. Both structure and function of bodytissues are dependent on specific proteins, such as enzymes and hormones. Fluid balance, hemostasis, many hormone and lipoprotein complexes and certain immune mechanisms are related to protein nutrition. Recent observations derived from many sources have re-emphasized and extended the clinical significance of plasma proteins, protein metabolites and protein degradation products. The concept of constant interchange or "dynamic equilibrium" between the proteins of blood and other tissues,1 , 2 the elucidation of indispensable amino acids,3 , 4 the application of heavy nitrogen and marked carbon to problems of nitrogen metabolism and immunology5 6 7 and . . .