The liver is the principal site for A. Synthesis of plasma albumin B. synthesis of plasma globulins C. Synthesis of vitamin B12 D. Storage of Vitamin C E Storage of iron

**Core Concept**
The liver plays a crucial role in synthesizing various plasma proteins, which are essential for maintaining blood volume, transporting nutrients and hormones, and regulating coagulation. The liver is responsible for producing proteins such as albumin, globulins, and clotting factors.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The liver synthesizes plasma albumin, which is the most abundant plasma protein. Albumin is produced by the hepatocytes in the liver and helps maintain blood volume by binding and transporting water, ions, and hormones. The liver produces approximately 13-20 grams of albumin per day, which is essential for maintaining normal blood volume and preventing edema.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Globulins, including immunoglobulins (antibodies), are primarily produced by the immune system, specifically by B lymphocytes in the spleen and lymph nodes.

**Option C:** Vitamin B12 is synthesized by bacteria in the gut, not the liver. The liver stores vitamin B12, but it is not responsible for its synthesis.

**Option D:** Vitamin C is synthesized by plants and some bacteria, but not by the human liver.

**Option E:** The liver stores iron in the form of ferritin and hemosiderin, but it does not store vitamin C.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The liver synthesizes approximately 1 liter of plasma proteins per day, which is essential for maintaining normal blood volume and preventing edema.

**Correct Answer:** A. Synthesis of plasma albumin