Human
blood constitutes of many different substances that play a vital role in
keeping the blood fresh and volatile. Blood proteins are also one of such
protein found in blood plasma (component of blood) that are responsible of
carrying out major body functions like transportation, regulation and to carry
out smooth activities of immune system in the human body. The major blood
proteins present in human plasma are Globulins, albumin, and fibrinogen.
All the plasma proteins are synthesized in liver except for the Gamma Globulin, a sub type of globulin
protein.
The globulins are
a family of globular proteins that have higher molecular
weights and water solubility values than the albumins. Some
globulins are produced in the liver, while others are made by the immune
system. The normal concentration of globulins in the blood is about 2.6-4.6
g/dL. Globulins are categorized into four categories Alpha 1, Alpha 2, Beta and
Gamma Globulins and these can be
distinguished from one another using the method of serum protein
electrophoresis.
Here
let’s discuss about the Human Immune Serum
Globulins also called as Gamma
globulin. They are also termed as immune globulins or antibodies constitute
the major part of plasma globulin proteins. These types of globulins are
produced by the mature B cells of the immune system and are used by the body's
defense system against the foreign invaders like bacteria, infections and
viruses. These globulins are further divided into five classes IgG, IgA, IgM,
IgD and IgE. These globulins play a major role in defending the body against many
external attacks so there necessity is crucial in the human body. But every
individual must have normal range of Gamma
Globulin present in their blood as decreased levels are indicative of an
immune deficiency and elevated levels may lead to blood cancers like Multiple
Myeloma and certain lymphomas.
Human
Immune Serum Globulins or Gamma Globulin are extracted from the
healthy donors and are preserved in liquid or powdered state to utilize them in
aid to patients with lower level of immunity in their body. They are prescribed
in many different forms as per the condition of the patient. There are many
medical uses of these globulins which had developed today with latest
advancement in technologies in medical world.
Some of
the medical uses of Gamma Globulin:
Gamma globulin injections are usually given to
the patients in an attempt to temporarily boost their immunity against various
diseases or infections. As these globulins are the product derived from human
blood, their injections along with blood transfusions and intravenous drug use
can pass Hepatitis C to its recipients. Also, its therapy has proven to be a
successful therapy for several medical conditions like hepatitis A, measles and
the autoimmune disorder Kawasaki disease (abnormal inflammation of the blood
vessels) in children. In addition to this gamma
globulin therapy can make a kidney donor and recipient compatible
regardless of blood and tissue match, and also can boost immunity for people
who cannot produce gamma globulins
naturally.
However,
gamma globulin therapy comes along with
a risk of negative side effects. Patients receiving this form of therapy may
experience headache, backache, muscle or joint pain, and overall feelings of
fatigue or illness. These effects decrease as the body becomes habituated to
the therapy. According to researchers these may actually cause a stroke or
heart attack in elderly patients with multiple risk factors. However, the Human
Immune Serum Globulins packed with
goodness can work wonders and act as a firewall against various immune
deficiency diseases like HIV, AIDS and cancer etc.
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