I have found a video that I think gives a reasonably simple explantation of Alpha-1 and its effects on the liver and lungs. I thought that you might like to see it. It helps me to visualize what is going on in the body.
Here is some additional information about the "genetics" of this condition that was written by our Genetic Counselor and other genetic professionals: http://www.accessdna.com/condition/Alpha_1_Antitrypsin_Deficiency/26. I hope it helps. Thanks, AccessDNA