Haptoglobin (Phenotype 1-1) from human plasma

Haptoglobin is a positive acute-phase plasma α2-sialoglycoprotein, and exists as three major phenotypes namely Hp 1-1, Hp 2-1, and Hp 2-2. Haptoglobin is composed of heavy β- (40 kDa) and light α- (α1= 8.9kDa and α2= 16kDa) chains. Hp 1-1 is the smallest phenotype with a molecular weight of 86kDa, and is composed of only α1.

Haptoglobin functions as an antioxidant by binding free hemoglobin, and eliminates it from circulation to prevent iron loss and renal injury following hemolysis. It is responsible for maintaining the helper T-cell type 1 and type 2 (Th1/Th2) balance, and functions as an immunosuppressor of lymphocyte function. It also functions as an angiogen and anti-inflammatory agent. Hp 1-1 phenotype is most effective in binding free hemoglobin and preventing inflammatory responses linked with free hemoglobin. Studies show that all the three phenotypes of haptoglobin are involved in idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

Lyophilized as a salt-free solid.