Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Pathogenesis of Cancer.

Alok Ghosh Chaudhuri, Saptadip Samanta, Monalisha Dey, N S Raviraja, Souvik Dey

Journal of environmental pathology, toxicology and oncology : official organ of the International Society for Environmental Toxicology and Cancer 2024

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Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) belongs to the albuminoid protein family and is considered as the fetal analog of serum albumin. This plasma protein is initially synthesized in the fetal liver and yolk sac and shows a maximum peak near the end of the first trimester. Later, concentrations begin to decline prenatally and drop precipitously after birth. This protein has three key ligand-binding pockets for interactions with various biomolecules. It contains multiple phosphorylation and acetylation sites for the regulation of physiological and pathophysiological states. High serum AFP titer is an established biomarker for yolk sac, embryonal and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present review critically analyzes the chemical nature, receptors, clinical implications, and therapeutic aspects of AFP, underpinning the development of different types of cancer.

Citation

Alok Ghosh Chaudhuri, Saptadip Samanta, Monalisha Dey, N S Raviraja, Souvik Dey. Role of Alpha-Fetoprotein in the Pathogenesis of Cancer. Journal of environmental pathology, toxicology and oncology : official organ of the International Society for Environmental Toxicology and Cancer. 2024;43(2):57-76