Amyloid Serum Protein SAA (serum amyloid A) is a type of protein that can be found in the blood and is produced primarily in the liver. It is a precursor to amyloid fibrils, which are abnormal protein aggregates that can accumulate in different organs and tissues, leading to various diseases known as systemic amyloidosis.
SAA is an acute-phase protein, meaning its production increases significantly in response to inflammation or infection. Its levels surge rapidly in the bloodstream when the body is undergoing an acute phase response, as it acts as an essential component of the immune system. SAA is involved in numerous biological processes, including the modulation of inflammation, modulation of cholesterol metabolism, and enhancement of cell migration.
The accumulation of SAA in various tissues can lead to the formation of amyloid fibrils, which disrupt the normal function of affected organs. This deposition of amyloid can result in conditions such as AA amyloidosis, a type of systemic amyloidosis characterized by the involvement of several organs, including the kidney, liver, and spleen.
Diagnostically, measuring the levels of SAA in the blood provides valuable information on the presence and severity of systemic inflammation in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, infections, and autoimmune disorders. Elevated levels of SAA are indicative of an ongoing inflammatory process, helping clinicians monitor disease activity and response to treatment.
In summary, Amyloid Serum Protein SAA is a protein produced in the liver in response to inflammation. Its abnormal accumulation can lead to the development of systemic amyloidosis, and its levels in the blood can be used as a diagnostic marker for inflammatory diseases.
