The Normal Minor Components of Human Foetal Haemoglobin

Abstract

By the application of electrophoretic and chromatographic techniques, 3 normal subtractions of Hb F were detected in cord blood, designated as Hb F2, F3 and F4. The findings on electrophoresis and chromatography were correlated. Study of the isolated minor components proved that all 3 had the properties of the fetal haemoglobin. The same minor haemoglobin components were identified in blood specimens from adults, containing increased amounts of alkali resistant haemoglobin. The conclusion was drawn that the subtractions not only characterize cord blood, but are also associated with the presence of alkali resistant haemoglobin.