TissueDB/Materials/Albumin
Public domain
Albumin is a water-soluble protein, available as egg white (ovalbumin) or as powdered or lyophilised bovine serum albumin (BSA). Its defining working property is heat-sensitivity: when warmed it coagulates irreversibly, turning from transparent to opaque cream-white. It is used as an additive in gel bases such as agar or polyacrylamide, stirred into the cooled base to prevent premature setting; lowering the pH reduces the temperature at which it sets. Sourced as fresh egg white from any grocery, or as BSA powder from laboratory suppliers. Can be used in medical simulation to give gel phantoms a visible heat response.
Tissues
| Tissue | Visual | Tactile | Simulator | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liver | Partial | Yes | 4–5% agar + 10–20% egg white. Add the egg white to cooled (about 50 °C) agar to prevent premature coagulation. | Sets to a soft solid; turns cream-white where heated. | |
| Tumor | Yes | Partial | Polyacrylamide + 5% BSA. Lowering the pH reduces the temperature at which the albumin sets. | Firmer gel; turns opaque where heated. |
References
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At a Glance
Overview
[edit source]Synonyms
[edit source]- Common names: Egg white, egg white protein, egg albumin
- Trade names: BSA (bovine serum albumin)
- Regional names: Clara de huevo (Spanish), Blanc d'œuf (French), Clara de ovo (Portuguese), بياض البيض (Arabic), 蛋白 (Chinese), अंडे का सफेद भाग (Hindi)
- Forms: Liquid egg white, powdered albumin, lyophilised albumin, egg white solution
- Chemical/Technical terms: Ovalbumin, bovine serum albumin, serum albumin, OVA
Background
Clinical Context for Simulation
[edit source]Processing & Preparation
[edit source]Safety Considerations
[edit source]Related Materials
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| Authors | Arturopelayo |
|---|---|
| License | CC-BY-SA-4.0 |
| Cite as | Arturopelayo (2026). "TissueDB/Materials/Albumin". Appropedia. Retrieved June 4, 2026. |