Fetoprotein

Fetoprotein is a protein that is produced by the fetus and the placenta during pregnancy. It is used as a marker in prenatal screening for Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and other chromosomal abnormalities.

Overview

Fetoprotein is a glycoprotein that is produced by the yolk sac and the liver during fetal development. It is thought to be the fetal form of serum albumin. Fetoprotein can also be found in the serum of adults with certain types of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma and testicular cancer.

Function

Fetoprotein has several functions in the fetus, including transport of fatty acids and bilirubin, and regulation of the maternal immune response to prevent rejection of the fetus.

Clinical significance

Fetoprotein is used as a marker in prenatal screening for Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and other chromosomal abnormalities. High levels of fetoprotein in the maternal serum can indicate a neural tube defect, while low levels can suggest Down syndrome.

Fetoprotein is also used as a tumor marker in adults. High levels of fetoprotein in the blood can indicate hepatocellular carcinoma or testicular cancer.

See also

• Prenatal screening
• Down syndrome
• Neural tube defects
• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Testicular cancer

References

Fetoprotein Resources
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