An analysis of the heterogeneity of albumin.

A simple and rapid procedure for characterization of serum albumin samples and for the isolation of fractions from fresh serum or commercial sources has been developed, based on DEAE Sepharose CL-6B ion exchange chromatography. Characterization of the fractions included sulfhydryl analysis, gel electrophoresis, and immunoelectrophoresis. Both analytical and preparative procedures were used. It has been shown that the relative content of the fractions varies from individual to individual. It has also been shown that certain fractions found in commercial preparations are artifacts which should be removed before performing serious studies with serum albumin.