Serum Globulin Electrophoresis
Alternate Names : Globulin Electrophoresis
Definition Serum globulin electrophoresis is a form of protein electrophoresis that examines the globulin proteins. See also protein electrophoresis - serum and immunoelectrophoresis - serum.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is performed when the amount of globulin proteins are of particular interest. Identification of the various types of globulins (globulin electrophoresis) can be useful in the diagnosis of various disorders.
Proteins are made from amino acids and are important constituents of all cells and tissues. There are many different kinds of proteins in the body with many different functions, for example, enzymes, some hormones, hemoglobin (oxygen transport), LDL (cholesterol transport), fibrinogen (blood clotting), collagen (structure of bone and cartilage), and immunoglobulins (antibodies).
Serum proteins are grossly separated into albumin and globulins. In other words, total protein = albumin + globulin. Albumin is the protein of highest concentration in the serum (plasma, the fluid portion of blood, is serum plus clotting proteins). Albumin is a carrier of many small molecules, but it is also of prime importance in maintaining the oncotic pressure of the blood (that is, keeping the fluid from leaking out into the tissues).
Globulins are roughly divided into alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. These can be separated and quantitated in the laboratory by electrophoresis and densitometry. The gamma fraction includes the various types of antibodies (immunoglobulins M, G, and A).
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