Phlogistic properties of the serum proteins, albumin and transferrin.

In the experimental model for inflammation, footpad edema induced by injections of monosodium urate crystals, effects of two acute-phase reactants, the carrier proteins albumin and transferrin, were studied. Addition of small amounts of these serum components to the test system resulted in greater swelling. A dose-related response was demonstrated. Doubling the amount of transferrin produced increased inflammation. Comments are presented on the possible protective role of pertubations in the serum proteins classified as acute-phase reactants in the organism's response to tissue injury or inflammation.