Some Genetical Implications of Physical Studies of Human Haptoglobins

Abstract

Genetical differences obtained with human and cattle serum proteins have been demonstrated by the technique of starch gel electrophoresis. These proteins in man, which are known as haptoglobins, migrate with the a2-globulins and have the specific property of binding hemoglobin. Family studies are usually compatible with the hypothesis that their synthesis is controlled by two autosomal genes with incomplete dominance. It has been proposed that the three genotypes should be designated Hpl/Hpl, Hp2/ Hp1, and Hp2/Hp2.