Acute phase proteins are plasma proteins which increase in concentration following infection, inflammation or trauma. The first acute phase protein to be recognized was discovered in humans by Tillet and Frances in 1930(1). AGP is a major acute phase reactant, both in man and in rat. Its concentration in blood plasma is elevated during acute inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, bacterial infections, etc, and can be used for the diagnosis of inflammatory conditions.

(1) Tillett et al (1930) J Exp Med 52:561-71.