Age and sex related levels of albumin, ceruloplasmin, alpha 1 antitrypsin, alpha 1 acid glycoprotein, and transferrin

Abstract

Serum levels of albumin (alb), ceruloplasmin (Cp), alpha 1-antitrypsin (AT), alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) and transferrin (Tf) were quantitatively determined by electroimmunodiffusion in 50 normal men and 75 normal women of varying ages. Alb, Cp and Tf are carrier proteins, AT is a protease inhibitor, and AGPs are acute phase reactants, with protective functions in inflammation. Subjects were grouped as follows: 20 to 44 years, 45 to 54 (an average statistical age at menopause +/- 5 years), and over 55. Differences related to sex and age were noted. These values are to serve, however, as controls for studies of rheumatic disorders in which sex and age are significant factors in demography.