The genetic variation of orosomucoid (ORM1 and ORM2) in three southwestern European populations (Galicia, Spanish Basque Country and northern Portugal) was investigated using hybrid isoelectric focusing. Three common ORM1 alleles were observed in these populations, the frequencies of ORM1*S observed in Galicia and northern Portugal being the highest found among populations of European origin. Rare variants were observed for both the ORM1 and ORM2 loci.

Optimal programs for the separation of polymorphic proteins and enzymes in miniaturized polyacrylamide gels using an automated system (PhastSystem) are described. The potential advantages and disadvantages of the method and its application to forensic science laboratories are discussed.