What is globulin?

From the Guidelines

Globulin is a group of proteins found in blood plasma and other body fluids that play important roles in immune function, blood clotting, and transport of various substances throughout the body. These proteins are produced primarily by the liver and immune cells. Globulins are typically divided into three main categories: alpha globulins, beta globulins, and gamma globulins.

• Alpha and beta globulins transport substances like hormones, lipids, and metals in the bloodstream,
• while gamma globulins (also called immunoglobulins or antibodies) are crucial for immune defense against infections, as discussed in the context of immunoglobulin replacement therapy for patients with antibody deficiency diseases 1. Doctors often measure globulin levels as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel to assess liver function, nutritional status, and immune system health. Abnormal globulin levels can indicate various conditions including liver disease, autoimmune disorders, infections, or certain types of cancer. The normal range for total globulin in adults is typically between 2.0 and 3.5 g/dL, though reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. It's also worth noting that globulins, particularly immunoglobulins, are used therapeutically, such as in the treatment of Guillain-Barré Syndrome, where intravenous immunoglobulin is considered a first-line treatment due to its ease of administration and reduced frequency of adverse effects compared to plasma exchange 1.

From the Research

Definition of Globulin

• Globulin is a type of protein found in the blood, and it plays a crucial role in the immune system 2, 3, 4.
• Immunoglobulins, also known as antibodies, are a type of globulin that helps fight infections and diseases 2, 3, 4.

Types of Globulin

• There are several types of globulins, including immunoglobulins (Ig), which are further classified into different classes, such as IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE, and IgD 4.
• Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is used to treat primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, and it involves administering immunoglobulins to patients who are deficient in these proteins 2, 3, 5, 6.

Functions of Globulin

• Globulins help to fight infections and diseases by binding to specific antigens and marking them for destruction 2, 3, 4.
• Immunoglobulins also play a role in immunomodulation, which helps to regulate the immune system and prevent excessive inflammation 4.

Administration of Globulin

• Immunoglobulin replacement therapy can be administered through intravenous (IVIG) or subcutaneous (SCIG) routes 2, 3, 5, 6.
• The choice of administration route depends on the individual patient's needs and preferences, and both IVIG and SCIG have their advantages and disadvantages 3, 5, 6.