Albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein: old acquaintances.

INTRODUCTION: Albumin and α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) are two of the most abundant proteins found in plasma. Their effect on the pharmacokinetic profile of exogenous compounds has major implications to clinical practice. Recent exploration into their possible role as diagnostic markers underlines their significance, and provides highlights their potential in medicinal applications. AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes the current understanding behind albumin and AGP. Specifically, the review focuses on their structure, physiological function, and their potential use in diagnostics as biomarkers. The article lists and describes the most common methods, with a specific focus on their use in drug design and clinical practice. EXPERT OPINION: Human serum albumin and AGP play a significant role in clinical practice. Research on human serum albumin and AGP, as potential diagnostic biomarkers, has been so far successful, with the development of novel diagnostic methods for detecting ischemia-modified albumin in cardiac ischemia patients. While research into this particular aspect is still in its infancy, future research should make things somewhat clearer and provide a better insight into the true potential of plasma proteins as a whole.