Albumin affects erythrocyte aggregation and sedimentation

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is influenced by plasma proteins like fibrinogen and immunoglobulins.
• The role of albumin, the most abundant plasma protein, in erythrocyte aggregation and sedimentation is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the complex effects of human albumin on erythrocyte sedimentation and viscosity.
• To clarify albumin's role in erythrocyte behavior under various plasma conditions.

Main Methods:

• Erythrocyte sedimentation measured using the Westergren method.
• Viscometry performed at low and high shear rates.
• Albumin added to normal plasma, hypoalbuminemic plasma, dextran solutions, and buffer mixtures.

Main Results:

• Albumin decreased erythrocyte sedimentation in normal plasma, hypoalbuminemic plasma, and dextran solutions.
• Albumin increased erythrocyte sedimentation only in mixtures containing fibrinogen and immunoglobulins.
• Albumin increased the viscosity of erythrocyte suspensions, particularly at low shear rates.

Conclusions:

• Albumin's influence on erythrocyte aggregation is technique-dependent and context-specific.
• Albumin generally inhibits erythrocyte sedimentation rate but increases low shear viscosity.
• Understanding albumin's effect is crucial for accurate interpretation of ESR tests in clinical practice.