AFP ELISA

Key Features and Values

– Same sample type can be used across all assays to simplify inclusion into routine serology work-up
– Ready to use reagents reduces hands-on time for assay preparation
– Long shelf life cost-effective solution by reducing wastage due to expired kits
– Suitable for inclusion on automated plate systems simplifies scale-up of test volume
– Supported by a complete panel of assays for supporting treatment monitoring of several forms of cancer

Product Description

Immunoenzymatic colorimetric method for the quantitative determination of AFP concentration in human serum or plasma. AFP ELISA kit is intended for laboratory use only.

Scientific Description
Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) is a 68 kDa glycoprotein, which is normally only produced in the fetus during its development.  It is a normally produced by the liver and yolk sac of the fetus.  AFP levels decrease soon after birth and probably has no function in normal adults.  It binds the hormone oestradiol (estradiol) to keep it from affecting the fetal brain.  Its measurement during pregnancy has been useful to detect certain abnormalities – specifically, if high levels of AFP are found in amniotic fluid, it can indicate a developmental defect in the baby.
In some patients who are not pregnant a tumour can produce AFP, thus it can be used as a tumour marker.  AFP is the main tumour marker (along with HCG) to diagnose testicular cancer and its values over time can have significant effect on the treatment plan.  Like all tumour markers, the detection of AFP by itself is not diagnostic of anything, although if it is detected it is certainly advisable to rule out any diseases which could cause levels to rise.  The primary reason tumour markers are used is to measure the success of a treatment (e.g. chemotherapy), if levels of AFP are going down, it is an indication that a disease is improving.
There is new research to suggest that an isoform of AFP which binds Lens culinaris agglutinin (AFP-L3) can be particularly useful in early identification of aggressive tumors associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Publications

1. Wisdom, G.B. Clin. Chem. 22/8 1243 – 1255 (1976)
2. Shome, B, J. Clin. Endocr. Metab.,39, 199–202 (1974)
3. Uotila, M, J. Immunol. Methds, 42, 11-15 (1981)
4. Acosta, A.A.M.D, J. of Clinical Immunoassays, 6, 41 (1983)
5. Jacobsen Acta Path Microb. Immun. Scand. 91 183- 190 (1983)
6. Kohn J Orr AH, McElwain TJ Lancet 2: 433 – 436 (1976)
7. Waaldmann Cancer 34 1510 – 1515, 1974

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Code: DKO012
Clinical Area:
Incubation: 60+15 min
Sensitivity: N/A
Specificity: N/A
Classification: IVD, CE
Number of Tests: 96
Sample Type: Serum/Plasma
Sample Volume: 25 μL
Assay Range: 5 - 200 ng/mL