Question 1

(Essay)

Kwashiorkor,a protein deficiency disease typically seen in young children living in developing tropical nations,will have an effect on three different main areas of health related to the blood.Explain why the three areas are effected and which proteins are involved in these functions.

Answer

Due to the protein deficiency,three specific proteins will be affected.The first is albumin which makes up 54% of the proteins found in the blood.Albumin is involved in maintaining osmotic pressure which affects the exchange of fluids across capillary walls.A deficiency will cause a buildup of fluid in the interstitial spaces of the tissues and bloating will occur.The second protein is globulin (of which there are several)that makes up 38% of the proteins in the blood.Globulins are involved in the immune system which helps protect the body from invading bacteria and viruses.A deficiency of globulins will cause the individual to frequently suffer from infections.In addition,globulins transport iron,lipids and fat-soluble vitamins,so a deficiency will lead to other problems of malnutrition.The third protein is fibrinogen which makes up 7% of the blood proteins.This protein is intimately involved in blood clotting.A deficiency will lead to serious bleeding problems.