Normal values in the adult Zambian V. plasma alpha-2 macroglobulin.

Abstract

Human plasma alpha-2 macroglobulin has been shown to be a major inhibitor of several plasma factors: Kallikrein (Harpel,1970), thrombin (Lanchantin et al,1966) and plasmin (Schultze et al,1963; Ganrot,1967). It is also said to be an inhibitor of trypsin (Karlson,1969). A study on the normal concentration of alpha-2 macroglobulin in the adult Zambian is presented. The values are time-related but fall within the normal range for Europeans and North Americans. An important difference in concentration between males and females is recorded.