General description

This gene encodes alpha-fetoprotein, a major plasma protein produced by the yolk sac and the liver during fetal life. Alpha-fetoprotein expression in adults is often associated with hepatoma or teratoma. However, hereditary persistance of alpha-fetoprotein may also be found in individuals with no obvious pathology. The protein is thought to be the fetal counterpart of serum albumin, and the alpha-fetoprotein and albumin genes are present in tandem in the same transcriptional orientation on chromosome 4. Alpha-fetoprotein is found in monomeric as well as dimeric and trimeric forms, and binds copper, nickel, fatty acids and bilirubin. The level of alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic fluid is used to measure renal loss of protein to screen for spina bifida and anencephaly.

Immunogen

Recombinant fusion protein containing a sequence corresponding to amino acids 360-609 of human AFP (NP_001125.1).

Physical form

PBS with 0.02% sodium azide,50% glycerol,pH7.3.

Storage and Stability

Store at -20℃. Avoid freeze / thaw cycles.