Acute-phase proteins
Acute-phase proteins are a class of proteins whose plasma concentrations increase (positive acute-phase proteins) or decrease (negative acute-phase proteins) in response to inflammation. This response is called the acute-phase reaction (also called acute-phase response).
Overview[edit | edit source]
The acute-phase reaction characteristically involves fever, an increase in circulating leukocytes, and a variety of metabolic and hormonal changes. The reaction is part of the body's immune system response to injury or inflammation. The increase in acute-phase proteins is primarily due to increased production by the liver.
Positive Acute-Phase Proteins[edit | edit source]
Positive acute-phase proteins include C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A, fibrinogen, procalcitonin, haptoglobin, and alpha 1-antitrypsin. These proteins show increased plasma concentration during inflammation.
Negative Acute-Phase Proteins[edit | edit source]
Negative acute-phase proteins include albumin, transferrin, transthyretin, and retinol-binding protein. These proteins show decreased plasma concentration during inflammation.
Function[edit | edit source]
The function of acute-phase proteins is generally defensive. They aid in the immune response by increasing local inflammation and recruiting macrophages and neutrophils. Some acute-phase proteins bind microbial products and prevent their spread.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Changes in the levels of acute-phase proteins in the blood can be used as markers of inflammation or infection. They are used in clinical medicine to assess disease activity and the effectiveness of treatment.
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD