Alpha-fetoprotein

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-000447",
  "term": "Alpha-fetoprotein",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A major plasma protein produced by the yolk sac and liver of a developing fetus. Its concentration in maternal blood and amniotic fluid is used as a biomarker for certain fetal abnormalities, such as neural tube defects or Down syndrome. Levels typically peak around 12-14 weeks of gestation.",
  "synonyms": [
    "α-1-fetoprotein"
  ],
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "fetus",
    "neural tube defect"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2016, 88, 713. 'Glossary of terms used in developmental and reproductive toxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2016)' on page 719 (https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2015-1202)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/alpha-fetoprotein/"
}