Alpha globin chains are essential components of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Each hemoglobin molecule consists of four chains: two alpha globin chains and two beta globin chains. The alpha globin chains are produced by the HBA1 and HBA2 genes located on chromosome 16. These chains play a crucial role in binding oxygen, allowing red blood cells to carry it from the lungs to tissues. Mutations in the genes encoding alpha globin chains can lead to disorders such as alpha thalassemia, which affects the production of hemoglobin and can result in anemia.