Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is used as a tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in combination with ultrasound and other imaging modalities. AFP levels reflect tumor size and correlate with disease progression, making them a valuable indicator for monitoring treatment effects and prognosis.
AFP is a single-chain glycoprotein with a molecular weight of about 70 kDa. It is one of the major proteins in fetal circulation and is initially produced by the liver and yolk sac of the fetus. In adults, AFP concentrations are elevated in malignant diseases (tumors) and pregnancy. Elevated AFP levels have also been observed in some non-hepatic malignancies. For example, AFP levels can increase when a large number of liver cells are damaged due to hepatitis, chronic liver disease, or malignant tumors, especially teratoma, and gastrointestinal cancer.
Hytest offers two monoclonal antibodies under the Cat. # 4F16 that can be used as a pair in sandwich immunoassay (capture-detection): 4A3cc - 5H7cc.