alpha-2-Macroglobulin is a large plasma protein found in the blood. It is mainly produced by the liver, and also locally synthesized by macrophages, fibroblasts, and adrenocortical cells. In humans it is encoded by the A2M gene.

What does an elevated alpha-2-macroglobulin mean?

Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2Macro)

Elevated levels are seen in clinical conditions such as cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, severe burns and diabetes. Decreased levels are seen in pancreatitis, fibrinolysis, and liver disease.

What is the role of alpha-2-macroglobulin?

Alpha 2-macroglobulin (alpha 2M) and related proteins share the function of binding host or foreign peptides and particles, thereby serving as humoral defense barriers against pathogens in the plasma and tissues of vertebrates.