Abstract: Human serum albumin is the most abundant extracellular protein,which plays an important biological roles such as maintaining plasma colloid osmotic pressure,having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions,binding and transporting materials,and regulating blood clotting. The quantity and quality of albumin are both abnormal in patients with end stage of liver diseases（ESLD）. Infusion of human serum albumin can increase the effective circulating volume,reduce the risk of complications such as hepatorenal syndrome in the treatment of patients with ESLD. Human serum albumin can also be used in molecular adsorbent recirculating system for the treatment of patients with hepatic failure,which might adsorpt small molecules and remove toxins. In this paper,we mainly reviewed the biological functions of albumin,the recent progress in its use in the treatment of patients with ESLD and some existing problems in clinical practice.

Key words: End stage of liver disease, Human serum albumin, Hepatorenal syndrome