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Alpha-2-Macroglobulin

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Alpha-2-macroglobulin is a protein that helps regulate the activity of various proteases in the body and is involved in the immune response and blood coagulation processes.

Quick summary

Alpha-2-macroglobulin is a protein biomarker used to assess liver function and diagnose liver diseases.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
g/L
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Alpha-2-Macroglobulin, Siemens Alpha-2-Macroglobulin
interpretation: {"text":"May indicate increased protease activity or conditions like DIC.","label":"Low Levels"}; {"text":"Suggest liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis or chronic liver disease.","label":"High Levels"}

Alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) is a large plasma protein that plays a crucial role in inhibiting a wide range of proteases, thereby maintaining protease-protease inhibitor balance in the body. It is primarily synthesized in the liver and is involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses and tissue repair mechanisms.

Elevated levels of alpha-2-macroglobulin can indicate liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis or chronic liver disease, as the liver's ability to clear the protein is compromised. Conversely, low levels may suggest increased protease activity or conditions like disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

The normal reference range for alpha-2-macroglobulin is 0–3.5 g/L. Testing for this biomarker is often part of a hepatic panel to evaluate liver health and function.

Frequently asked questions

What is the normal range for alpha-2-macroglobulin?
The normal reference range for alpha-2-macroglobulin is 0–3.5 g/L.
What conditions can cause elevated alpha-2-macroglobulin levels?
Elevated levels can indicate liver dysfunction, such as cirrhosis or chronic liver disease.
  1. 1
    Alpha-2-Macroglobulin - Lab Tests OnlineSource
  2. 2
    Role of Alpha-2-Macroglobulin in Health and DiseaseSource

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy