The development of the serum protein pattern in Africans.

The serum protein of African and European mothers, African and European umbilical cord blood, and African children up to 6(1/2) years of age have been investigated. African umbilical cord blood contains significantly higher concentrations of gamma globulin than European umbilical cord blood. Significant differences were not found in the other protein fractions. The level of gamma globulin in the serum of African mothers is significantly higher than the corresponding level in European mothers. Significant differences were not observed in the other protein fractions. The changes in serum proteins in pregnancy in African women follow the pattern described in European women. Close correlation was demonstrated between the level of maternal and cord blood gamma globulin. The significance of this finding has been discussed. It is concluded that hereditary factors cannot be excluded until further information on the level of gamma globulin of Europeans and other races subjected to the conditions of life of the average African is available.