α1 Antitrypsin

α1 Antitrypsin belongs to the α1-globulin family and functions as an inhibitor of a broad spectrum of serine proteases such as trypsin, plasmin, and thrombin.  This protein is an acute phase protein with normal serum levels of 2-4mg/ml. Elevated levels are seen after surgery, during acute inflammatory episodes, in cancer, and during pregnancy.  In addition, individuals with a congenital deficiency are predisposed to pulmonary emphysema and liver disease.