Hemoglobin A2

Hemoglobin A2: Features and Role in the Human Body

Hemoglobin is an important component of blood that ensures the transport of oxygen to tissues and organs. In the composition of normal hemoglobin in an adult, several different types can be distinguished, one of which is hemoglobin A2. In this article we will look at the features of hemoglobin A2, its role in the body and its connection with the pathological condition - thalassemia.

Hemoglobin A2 (HbA2) is hemoglobin present in small amounts, not exceeding 2.5% of the total normal hemoglobin. It differs from hemoglobin A (HbA) in the structure of one pair of polypeptide chains. Instead of the α chains present in HbA, hemoglobin A2 contains δ chains. Thus, the composition of HbA2 includes two α-chains and two δ-chains.

Hemoglobin A2 is synthesized in erythroid cells of the bone marrow, and its level in the body may change in some pathological conditions. The main role of hemoglobin A2 is in the diagnosis and monitoring of thalassemias, a group of inherited disorders of hemoglobin formation. Thalassemias are characterized by genetic mutations that lead to decreased synthesis of certain globin chains of hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin A2 levels increase in the presence of α-thalassemia, beta-thalassemia and delta-thalassemia. In some cases, elevated HbA2 values ​​may indicate the presence of heterozygous forms of thalassemia, while HbA2 levels close to normal are observed in carriers of homozygous forms of thalassemia.

Diagnosis of thalassemias based on the measurement of hemoglobin A2 levels is an important method that is accessible and relatively easy to perform. Elevated HbA2 values ​​can be used together with other laboratory and clinical parameters to make the diagnosis of thalassemia and determine its type.

In conclusion, hemoglobin A2 is one of the hemoglobin variants present in the body in small quantities. Changes in hemoglobin A2 levels may indicate the presence of thalassemia. The use of HbA2 measurement is an important method for diagnosing and classifying these genetic disorders.

Hemoglobin A2 is one of the most common types of hemoglobin found in human blood. It was discovered in the 1950s and has been the subject of much research since then.

Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Hemoglobin A2 differs from other types of hemoglobin in its structure. It contains two ‑chains instead of ‑chains, which makes it more resistant to oxygen.

A person with normal hemoglobin may have up to 2.5% hemoglobin A2. However, in diseases such as thalassemia, the hemoglobin A2 content can be significantly higher.

Research has shown that hemoglobin A2 plays an important role in protecting the body from oxygen exposure. It helps transport oxygen more efficiently and protects cells from damage due to hypoxia.

In addition, hemoglobin A2 may be important for the diagnosis of certain diseases. For example, a blood test for hemoglobin A2 helps determine the presence of thalassemia in children, which can lead to anemia and other complications.

Thus, hemoglobin A2 is an important component of blood that plays a role in transporting oxygen and protecting the body from damage.