Abstract

Free fatty acids (FFA) in blood are carried by serum albumin. A hypothesis is offered that conditions giving a high molar ratio of FFA to albumin may lead to dysfunction of the cells which are directly exposed to the high FFA/albumin ratio, i.e. the red and white blood cells, and endothelial cells. The hypothesis is supported by observations of (1) hemolytic effect of FFA, and protection by albumin in vitro, (2) inhibition of white blood cells by FFA, (3) increased FFA/albumin ratio and erythrocyte susceptibility to hemolysis in pre-eclampsia, (4) increased incidence of eclampsia in undernutrition, (5) the paradox that famine suppresses and refeeding activates malaria, and (6) an inverse relationship between serum albumin level and mortality.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.