Effects of albumin on fatty acid, protein, and eicosanoid levels in rat mesenteric arterial bed perfusions.

Male rats were maintained on rat chow supplemented with 5% evening primrose oil for 2 weeks. Mesenteric perfusions were then performed, half with and half without albumin. Albumin was found to increase the yield of fatty acids and reduce eicosanoid levels. Perfusions without albumin decreased fatty acid release, increased eicosanoid levels, and showed a decrease in protein concentration over time. The value of albumin as a "trap" for fatty acids during perfusion experiments depends upon what parameter is to be measured.