Vital Biological Functions of Blood

Beyond its primary role in oxygen and nutrient transport and waste removal, blood plays crucial biological functions:

1. Coagulation:
* Aids in repairing and healing wounds through clot formation.
* Stops bleeding and prevents blood loss.

2. Transport:
* Carries essential nutrients, oxygen, drugs, and waste products throughout the body.

3. Immunity:
* Circulates white blood cells and antibodies to protect the body from foreign invaders.

4. Regulation:
* Maintains body pH and core temperature.

5. Hormone Transport:
* Delivers hormones to various tissues for communication.

6. Tissue Damage Signaling:
* Transmits signals indicating tissue injury.

7. Hydraulic Functions:
* Provides hydraulic pressure for various body processes.

Blood Testing and Analysis:

Blood tests analyze the chemical composition of blood to:

* Detect the presence of pathogens, harmful substances, and drugs.
* Determine physiological and biochemical states, such as:
* Disease diagnosis
* Mineral levels
* Drug effectiveness
* Organ function

By comparing blood samples to standard values, healthcare providers can identify abnormalities that may indicate underlying health conditions.