ABSTRACT
Human blood is a liquid connective tissue that serves two primary functions: transport and defense. The role of blood in carrying oxygen to the cells and carbon dioxide to the lungs for disposal through respiration is probably the most well-known function. Blood is also responsible for transporting food in the form of glucose, lipids, and amino acids from the alimentary canal to the cells. It also serves as a carrying medium for hormones that are secreted directly into the blood by the endocrine glands and electrolytes such as sodium (Na
), calcium (Ca
), and bicarbonate (HCO
) that serve a vital role in the maintenance of the proper acid-base balance needed to sustain life and neuroconduction.
