What does A1AT mean in CLINICAL MEDICINE

Alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) is a protein produced in the liver that helps protect the lungs against inflammation and tissue damage.

A1AT is important because it helps to prevent inflammatory processes that could lead to lung damage. Without adequate levels of A1AT, tissues in the lungs can become damaged from inflammation, leading to breathlessness or other health problems.

You can increase your levels of A1AT by consuming food or supplements rich in this protein, such as those found in dairy products, eggs, soybeans, nuts and certain vegetables. Additionally, you can speak with your doctor about more specific dietary recommendations.

Yes, there are some genetic disorders that can occur when either too little or too much of the A1AT protein is present in the body resulting from a mutation on chromosome 14 which affects its production and/or regulation. Low levels of A1AT may result in lung and liver damage if not treated appropriately.

Yes, treatments for low A1AT levels may involve lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or avoiding exposure to air pollutants and using medications to reduce further lung damage. In some cases, augmentation therapy - where purified serum containing high concentrations of healthy A 1 AT are injected directly into a patient's bloodstream - may be used as well.