The movement of electrically charged particles suspended in a colloid solution under the influence of an electric current. The direction, distance, and rate of movement of the particles vary according to their size, shape, and electrical charge. Electrophoresis is used to analyse mixtures (to identify and quantify the proteins in blood, for example). It may be used as a diagnostic test for multiple myeloma, a bone marrow tumour that produces abnormally high levels of a specific immunoglobulin in the blood.
The migration of charged particles between electrodes. A simple method of electrophoresis, known as paper electrophoresis, has been introduced to analyse PROTEIN in body ?uids. This method consists in applying the protein-containing solution as a spot or a streak to a strip of ?lter paper which has been soaked in bu?er solution and across the ends of which a potential di?erence is then applied for some hours. Comparison is made between ?lter strips of normal ?uids and that of the patient under investigation. Identi?cation and quanti?cation of proteins in the blood are possible using this method.
n. the technique of separating electrically charged particles, particularly proteins, in a solution by passing an electric current through the solution. The rate of movement of the different components depends upon their charge, so that they gradually separate into bands. Electrophoresis is widely used in the investigation of body chemicals, such as the analysis of the different proteins in blood serum.
Gamma-globulin describes a group of proteins present in the blood PLASMA. They are characterised by their rate of movement in an electrical ?eld, and can be separated by the process of ELECTROPHORESIS. Most gamma-globulins are IMMUNOGLOBULINS. Gamma-globulin injection provides passive or active immunity against HEPATITIS A. (See also GLOBULIN; IMMUNITY; IMMUNOLOGY.)... gamma-globulin
An inherited blood disease in which the red blood cells contain haemoglobin S, an abnormal type of haemoglobin. This crystallizes in the capillaries, making red cells sickle-shaped and fragile, and leading to haemolytic anaemia. The abnormal cells are unable to pass easily through tiny blood vessels. The blood supply to organs is blocked intermittently, causing sickle cell crises. The disease affects mainly black people.Symptoms usually appear after age 6 months, often beginning with painful swelling of the hands and feet. Chronic haemolytic anaemia causes fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath on exertion, pallor, and jaundice. Sickle cell crises start suddenly; they are sometimes brought on by an infection, cold weather, or dehydration, but may also occur for no apparent reason. The sufferer may experience pains (especially in the bones), blood in the urine (from kidney damage) or damage to the lungs or intestines. If the brain is affected, seizures, a stroke, or unconsciousness may result.
In some affected children, the spleen enlarges and traps red cells at a particularly high rate, causing a life-threatening form of anaemia. After adolescence, the spleen usually stops functioning, increasing the risk of infection in those affected.
Diagnosis is made from examination of a blood smear and electrophoresis.
Supportive treatment may include folic acid supplements, and penicillin and immunization to protect against infection.
Life-threatening crises are treated with intravenous infusions of fluids, antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and analgesic drugs.
If the crisis still does not respond, an exchange blood transfusion may be performed.
This may be done regularly for people who suffer frequent severe crises.... sickle cell anaemia
any of a class of proteins, present in the blood *plasma, identified by their characteristic rate of movement in an electric field (see electrophoresis). Almost all gammaglobulins are *immunoglobulins. Injection of gammaglobulin provides temporary protection against *hepatitis A and reduces the incidence of coronary artery involvement in *Kawasaki disease. Infusions of gammaglobulin are used to treat immunodeficiencies or immune-mediated disorders, such as autoimmune haemolytic *anaemia or *idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. See also globulin.... gammaglobulin
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