The albumin, alpha-globulin and beta globulin fractions provide information on protein synthesis by the liver or losses through the kidney (nephrotic syndrome) or the digestive tract (exudative enteropathy).
The alpha-1-globulin fraction is mostly composed of alpha-1-glycoprotein and alpha-1-antitrypsin.
Alpha-1-glycoprotein:
Alpha-1-glycoprotein (orosomucoid) is an acute-phase protein and is therefore an indicator of inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.). The level of inflammation is however more conveniently evaluated using the level of CRP (C-Reactive Protein) or the measurement of the sedimentation rate.
Alpha-1-antitrpysin:
Alpha-1-antitrpysin (α-1-AT) is a protein that protects the lungs and liver from damage that could be caused by the activation of cell digesting enzymes, a normal body defence mechanism. Levels of α-1-AT are determined by two copies of a gene, each responsible for the synthesis of half of the available α-1-AT. Levels of α-1-AT below 30% of normal values indicate a risk of damage caused by the activation of the digesting enzymes (early pulmonary emphysema or liver cirrhosis). Low levels can also be observed in situations that lead to a general decline in serum proteins such as kidney disease, malnutrition and certain cancers.
Alpha-1-antitrypsin is an “acute-phase protein”. Levels will increase under acute or chronic inflammatory conditions, infections and certain cancers. These acute-phase increases could temporarily mask an otherwise genetically depressed α-1-AT level.
In general, proteins are found in the blood of healthy people. They play an important role in supporting optimal body functioning and health. For example, they:
– carry oxygen to where it’s needed in the body
– aid in digestion
– support muscle movement
– fight off disease
– support the growth and maintenance of tissues throughout the entire body
However, you should not have a lot of protein in your urine.
Most of the proteins in your body that help keep you healthy can be placed into two major groups: albumin and globulins.
Albumin is a single protein that’s found in high levels in the blood.
Most globulins are produced in the liver.
They include four main types of proteins:
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– alpha-1 globulin
– alpha-2 globulin
– beta globulin
– gamma globulin
References:
– Understanding and Interpreting Serum Protein Electrophoresis [L]
– Protein Electrophoresis Immunofixation Electrophoresis [L]
Higher values:
In general, proteins are found in the blood of healthy people. They play an important role in supporting optimal body functioning and health. For example, they:
– carry oxygen to where it’s needed in the body
– aid in digestion
– support muscle movement
– fight off disease
– support the growth and maintenance of tissues throughout the entire body
However, you should not have a lot of protein in your urine.
Disclaimer:
Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, the method used for the test, and other things. Your test results may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.
The information on healthmatters.io is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.
