Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 30, 2026

10:16
In Vitro Enzyme Measurement to Test Pharmacological Chaperone Responsiveness in Fabry and Pompe Disease
Published on: December 20, 2017
[Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. A diagnostic approach and case report]
E Mazzoleni1, G Munafò, E Pelizzari
1Day-Hospital di Pediatria, USSL 35, Ospedale Civile di Palazzolo s/o, (Bresica).
Minerva Pediatrica
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) can cause liver and lung disease. This study identified an asymptomatic PiZZ phenotype AATD case through incidental lab findings.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Hepatology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a genetic disorder.
- PiZ and PiZZ phenotypes are associated with liver and lung diseases.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for managing AATD complications.
Observation:
- The study presents a case of PiZZ phenotype AATD.
- The patient was asymptomatic.
- Diagnosis was incidental, prompted by abnormal lab results.
Findings:
- Altered transaminase and alpha 1-globulin levels were key diagnostic indicators.
- Genetic and clinical data supported the diagnosis.
- This highlights the potential for identifying AATD in unexpected ways.
Implications:
- Suggests routine screening for AATD may be beneficial in specific contexts.
- Underscores the importance of investigating abnormal liver function tests.
- Highlights the variable clinical presentation of AATD, even in severe genotypes.
Related Concept Videos
Allosteric Proteins-ATCase
Binding sites linkages can regulate a protein's function. For example, enzyme activity is often regulated through a feedback mechanism where the end product of the biochemical process serves as an inhibitor.
Aspartate transcarbamoylase (ATCase) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyzes the condensation of L-aspartate and carbamoyl phosphate to N-carbamoyl-L-aspartate. This reaction is the first step in pyrimidine biosynthesis. UTP and CTP, the end products of the pyrimidine synthesis pathway,...
Aspartate transcarbamoylase (ATCase) is a cytosolic enzyme that catalyzes the condensation of L-aspartate and carbamoyl phosphate to N-carbamoyl-L-aspartate. This reaction is the first step in pyrimidine biosynthesis. UTP and CTP, the end products of the pyrimidine synthesis pathway,...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Emphysema, a major phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is characterized by irreversible destruction of alveolar walls and permanent enlargement of distal airspaces. Unlike chronic bronchitis, which primarily affects the airways, emphysema predominantly involves the lung parenchyma, where structural damage leads to airflow limitation.PathophysiologyIt most commonly results from prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and other toxic gases, particularly cigarette smoke.

