| alpha-2-macroglobulin |
 |
Once the proteolytic enzymes (proteases) are absorbed, protease
molecules can bind with
α-2-macroglobulin
(alpha 2-macroglobulin), a high molecular weight plasma
glycoprotein, to create
α-2-macroglobulin-protease
complexes.3,4
|
| This binding changes the configuration of
α-2-macroglobulin so that the newly activated
α-2-macroglobulin-protease complex now has increased binding
capacity for certain cytokines5, as well as other
proteins and glycoproteins. Protease activation of α-2-macroglobulin
also facilitates its binding to, and elimination of, proteins
damaged by oxidative stress or heat.6 In addition,
protease activation of α-2-macroglobulin facilitates the degradation
and clearance of the amyloid beta peptide (A beta), a major
component of senile plaques in degenerative brain conditions.7-12
|
 |
| The alpha 2-macroglobulin-proteinase complexes
have become activated for receptor mediated endocytosis and are
readily removed by hepatic α-2M-receptors (α-2M-R)5, as
well as other cells expressing α-2M-R, such as macrophages. The
alpha 2-macroglobulin-proteinase complexes also modify immune
responses and promote macrophage locomotion and chemotaxis13,
such that the activated alpha 2-macroglobulin-proteinase complexes
are cleared from the circulation very quickly by macrophages.14 |
|
Immune System Balance Restored |
 |
|
Since cytokines are involved in inflammatory
processes, the binding to cytokines and the removal of cytokines by
the activated α-2-macroglobulin proteins support a balanced and
properly functioning immune system. Once cytokine levels are
restored to their optimal physiologically balanced state the immune
system is able to resume its function of protecting the body and
initiating the healing process. With renewal of the normal
inflammatory process the regenerative processes of the immune system
are again allowed to function.
|
