Alpha 1 is the common name for a genetic condition called Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. If you have Alpha 1, your body is unable to produce a protein known as alpha 1 antitrypsin, or AAT for short. This protein plays an important role in protecting your lungs from damage due to excessive inflammation. Without this protein present in your blood, your lungs may weaken over time and place you at a higher risk for developing serious diseases, such as emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An abnormal amount of AAT in the liver can also cause liver disease.