Fetoprotein
Fetoprotein
Fetoprotein (pronounced: fee-toh-proh-teen) is a type of protein that is produced by the fetus during pregnancy. The term is derived from the Latin words 'fetus' meaning offspring and 'protein' meaning primary importance.
Alpha-fetoprotein
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a specific type of fetoprotein that is produced by the yolk sac and the liver during fetal development. It is used as a marker in prenatal screening tests for neural tube defects and Down syndrome.
Beta-fetoprotein
Beta-fetoprotein is another type of fetoprotein that is less commonly referred to in medical literature. It is also produced during fetal development, but its function is not as well understood as that of alpha-fetoprotein.
Functions
Fetoproteins serve several important functions during fetal development. They transport nutrients to the fetus, protect the fetus from the mother's immune system, and help in the development of the fetus's own immune system.
Medical Significance
Abnormal levels of fetoproteins in a pregnant woman's blood can indicate potential health issues for the fetus. High levels of alpha-fetoprotein can indicate neural tube defects such as spina bifida, while low levels can suggest Down syndrome.
Related Terms
- Pregnancy
- Protein
- Fetus
- Alpha-fetoprotein
- Beta-fetoprotein
- Neural tube defects
- Down syndrome
- Spina bifida
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fetoprotein
- Wikipedia's article - Fetoprotein
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