Alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein Alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein (AHSG) also known as fetuin-A is a protein that in humans is encoded by the "AHSG" gene. Fetuin-A belongs to the fetuin class of plasma binding proteins and is more abundant in fetal than adult blood. Alpha2-HS glycoprotein, a glycoprotein present in the serum, is synthesized by hepatocytes. The AHSG molecule consists of two polypeptide chains, which are both cleaved from a proprotein encoded from a single mRNA. It is involved in several functions, such as endocytosis, brain development and the formation of bone tissue. The protein is commonly present in the cortical plate of the immature cerebral
Blood transfusion Blood transfusion Blood transfusion is generally the process of receiving blood or blood products into one's circulation intravenously. Transfusions are used for various medical conditions to replace lost components of the blood. Early transfusions used whole blood, but modern medical practice commonly uses only components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, clotting factors, and platelets. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin and increase iron levels by improving the amount of oxygen found in the body. White blood cells, are not commonly used during transfusion but are related to the immune system and to fight infections.