AL amyloidosis involves proteins called light chains. These light chains make up part of the structure of immunoglobulins (antibodies) which play an important part in the immune system. They are produced by plasma cells in the bone marrow.

In AL amyloidosis, abnormal plasma cells make excessive amounts of abnormal light chain proteins. Instead of forming immunoglobulin, they become misfolded and deposit as amyloid in various organs of the body.

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