The word "humanplasma" is spelled with three syllables and pronounced as /ˈhjuː.mæn.plæz.mə/. The first syllable "hu" is pronounced like "hue," the second syllable "man" sounds like "man," and the third syllable "plasma" is pronounced as "plaz-muh." The word refers to the fluid part of human blood that carries nutrients and hormones throughout the body. The correct spelling of the word ensures that it can be accurately identified, researched, and referred to in medical contexts.
Human plasma refers to the yellowish fluid component of blood that constitutes approximately 55% of total blood volume. It is the liquid portion of blood that remains after cellular components such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets have been removed. Plasma plays a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions and is composed of water, proteins, hormones, nutrients, electrolytes, waste products, and other important substances.
Plasma serves as a transportation system within the body, allowing the delivery of essential substances to the cells and removal of metabolic waste products. It aids in the regulation of body temperature and pH balance, as well as acting as a buffer to help maintain blood pressure. Additionally, plasma helps in clotting, which prevents excessive bleeding and promotes wound healing.
The proteins found in human plasma include albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen. Albumin helps maintain osmotic pressure, transports hormones and fatty acids, and aids in antioxidant defense. Globulins are involved in immune responses, while fibrinogen is responsible for the formation of blood clots. Hormones present in plasma contribute to various physiological processes, such as metabolism and reproduction.
Plasma is also used in medical treatments such as plasma exchange or plasma donation, where it can be separated from blood cells to provide therapeutic benefits for patients with certain conditions or used for manufacturing life-saving medications.
The term "human plasma" does not have a specific etymology of its own. Instead, it is a combination of two separate words:
1. Human: The word "human" traces back to the Latin word "humanus", which means "of or belonging to a person". It is derived from the earlier Latin word "homo", meaning "man" or "human being".
2. Plasma: The term "plasma" originates from the Greek word "plasma", which means "something molded" or "something formed". Originally used in the context of a moldable and jelly-like substance, it was later adopted in modern science to refer to the clear, liquid portion of blood in which cells are suspended.
When combined, "human plasma" simply refers to the liquid component of the blood found in human beings.