AFP ELISA Kit

AFP ELISA Kit

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a 68 kDa glycoprotein that is produced primarily by the fetal liver and yolk sac during development. AFP levels are high during fetal development and decrease substantially after birth, with only low concentrations normally present in healthy adults. AFP binds various ligands, including fatty acids and steroid hormones, and is thought to contribute to their transport during fetal development. Measurement of AFP has been widely investigated as a biomarker in pregnancy and in conditions associated with abnormal or increased AFP production.

In research settings, AFP measurement is used to study fetal development, liver function, and tumor biology. Researchers investigate AFP concentrations in maternal serum or other biological samples to characterize changes associated with fetal development and pregnancy-related conditions. AFP is also studied as a tumor-associated biomarker, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and certain germ cell tumors. The AFP isoform AFP-L3, which binds Lens culinaris agglutinin, has also been investigated for its potential value in characterizing hepatocellular carcinoma and distinguishing more aggressive disease.

In clinical research, AFP measurement has been investigated as a biomarker for prenatal screening and for monitoring certain malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma and non-seminomatous germ cell tumors. Changes in AFP concentrations over time may provide information about disease progression or response to treatment when interpreted alongside clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Elevated AFP levels are not specific to a single disease and can occur in several physiological and pathological conditions, so AFP measurement alone is not diagnostic. Combining AFP measurements with other biomarkers, imaging, and clinical information can provide a more comprehensive assessment of the underlying condition.

This AFP ELISA Kit is manufactured in Italy by Diametra.