The intercellular matrix of the blood is known as plasma.
It is the blood's liquid portion that comprises 91% of water and the rest of solutes and proteins.
It comprises solutes such as nutrients, wastes, blood gases, electrolytes, and regulatory molecules.
It comprises proteins like albumin, fibrinogens, prothrombin, and globulins.
Plasma constitutes 50 to 55 percent of the total blood volume.
Functions of plasma:
Coagulation: The proteins that are present in plasma play an important role in the clotting process. It stops a person from bleeding.
Immunity: The plasma consists of proteins that can fight diseases like antibodies which help to maintain the immune system.
Blood pressure and volume maintenance: Albumin present in plasma helps to maintain oncotic pressure. It prevents fluid leakage into body and skin areas.
pH balance: Plasma consists of substances that help it to maintain pH within the normal range.
Transportation: Plasma helps to transport important substances and to remove waste products.
Body temperature: Plasma helps in maintaining the body temperature by losing and gaining heat in the body.