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.
Sample Type
Serum, plasma, cell culture supernates and tissue homogenates.
Intended Use
For the quantitative determination of human alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) concentrations in serum, plasma, cell culture supernates and tissue homogenates.
Specificity
This assay has high sensitivity and excellent specificity for detection of human AFP. No significant cross-reactivity or interference between human AFP and analogues was observed.
Test Principle
This BioAssay™ employs the quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique. An antibody specific for AFP has been pre-coated onto a microplate. Standards and samples are pipetted into the wells and any AFP present is bound by the immobilized antibody. After removing any unbound substances, a Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated antibody specific for AFP is added to the wells. Following a wash to remove any unbound reagent, a substrate solution is added to the wells and color develops in proportion to the amount of AFP bound in the initial step. The color development is stopped and the intensity of the color is measured.
Kit Components
Assay plate, 1x96 wellstStandard (Freeze dried), 2x vialstHRP-conjugate (100X concentrate), 1x120ultHRP-conjugate Diluent, 1x20mltSample Diluent, 2x20mltWash Buffer (25X concentrate), 1x20mltTMB Substrate, 1x10mltStop Solution, 1x10mltAdhesive Strip (For 96 wells), 4x stripstInstruction manualtStorage and Stability
