Beta Globulin Unit Converter

Beta-globulin is one of five major protein fractions in your blood, measured by serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP). When an electric current is applied to a blood sample, proteins separate by charge and size into albumin, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, and gamma globulins.

The beta fraction is further divided into two subfractions. Beta-1 is composed primarily of transferrin (the body's main iron-transport protein) and plasminogen. Beta-2 contains complement C3 (an immune protein), beta-lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol carrier), and some immunoglobulins.

Because these proteins serve diverse roles, the beta-globulin level provides a window into iron metabolism, immune function, lipid transport, and overall liver health.

Most beta-globulin proteins are produced by the liver, including transferrin, complement C3 and C4, and plasminogen. The immunoglobulin components (IgA) are produced by plasma cells and B-lymphocytes throughout the body.