Skarzynska E, et al. - This study is conducted to assess the protease/antiprotease balance by examining the total proteolytic activity and concentration of α-1 antitrypsin in meconium. The Strong correlation between the concentrations of active proteases and α-1 antitrypsin in meconium may indicate their mutual interaction in the intrauterine environment. Α-1 antitrypsin maintains the protease/antiprotease balance amid fetal development.