| Webster's Online Dictionary |
| Expressions | Definition | ||
| Beta 2-microglobulin | A small protein that forms part of the Class I MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex). In patients on long-term hemodialysis, it can aggregate into amyloid fibers that deposit in joint spaces, a disease known as dialysis-related amyloidosis. (references) | ||
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
| Expressions | Domain | Definition | |
| Beta 2-Microglobulin | Health | An 11 kDa protein associated with the outer membrane of many cells including lymphocytes. It is the small subunit of the MHC class I molecule. Association with beta 2-microglobulin is generally required for the transport of class I heavy chains from the endoplasmic reticulum to the cell surface. Beta 2-microglobulin is present in small amounts in serum, csf, and urine of normal people, and to a much greater degree in the urine and plasma of patients with tubular proteinemia, renal failure, or kidney transplants. (references) | |
Source: compiled by the editor from various references; see credits. | Top | ||
