Plasma (as the liquid component of blood; not a protein or receptor)

Plasma is the pale yellow liquid component of blood that remains after removal of blood cells by centrifugation. It consists primarily of water (around 90%), with the remaining portion made up of proteins (albumin, globulins—including immunoglobulins—and fibrinogen), electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and waste products. The major plasma proteins are produced mostly by the liver. Plasma plays essential roles in transporting substances throughout the body, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, defending against infection, enabling blood clotting, and buffering acid-base equilibrium. Therapies derived from plasma proteins (such as clotting factors, immunoglobulins, and albumin) are critical treatments for conditions including hemophilia, immunodeficiencies, and acute bleeding disorders.

Other names

Blood plasma