Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein
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Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AAG), also known as orosomucoid, is an acute-phase protein found in the blood plasma of humans and other animals. It is primarily synthesized by the liver and plays a significant role in the body's response to inflammation and infection.
Structure[edit | edit source]
Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein is a glycoprotein, meaning it is a protein with carbohydrate groups attached to the polypeptide chain. It has a molecular weight of approximately 41-43 kDa and consists of a single polypeptide chain with five carbohydrate chains. These carbohydrate chains are rich in sialic acid, which contributes to the protein's negative charge at physiological pH.
Function[edit | edit source]
AAG is involved in several physiological processes, including:
- **Acute-phase response**: As an acute-phase protein, AAG levels increase in response to inflammation, infection, and trauma. It is part of the body's innate immune response and helps modulate the immune system.
- **Drug binding**: AAG is known for its ability to bind to various drugs, affecting their distribution and availability in the body. This binding can influence the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications, particularly those that are highly protein-bound.
- **Transport**: AAG can bind and transport various endogenous and exogenous compounds, including hormones, steroids, and lipids.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
The concentration of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein in the blood can be affected by various conditions:
- **Increased levels**: Conditions such as inflammation, infection, trauma, and cancer can lead to elevated levels of AAG.
- **Decreased levels**: Liver disease, malnutrition, and certain genetic disorders can result in lower levels of AAG.
Monitoring AAG levels can be useful in clinical settings to assess the inflammatory status of a patient and to adjust drug dosages, especially for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index.
Genetics[edit | edit source]
The gene encoding alpha-1-acid glycoprotein is located on chromosome 9 at the q32 band. There are two main genetic variants of AAG, ORM1 and ORM2, which are expressed in different proportions in individuals.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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