Alpha-fetoprotein: A Multifaceted Player in Cancer Biology

作者：Mete Ucdal, Yiğit Yazarkan, Gamze Sönmez, Başak Çeltikçi, Yasemin Balaban · 发表于：Euroasian Journal of Hepato-Gastroenterology · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.5005/jp-journals-10018-1458 · 被引用次数：2 · 研究领域：Testicular diseases and treatments、Prenatal Screening and Diagnostics、Assisted Reproductive Technology and Twin Pregnancy

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a major oncofetal protein, plays a pivotal role in cancer biology, extending beyond its initial identification in fetal development. Alpha-fetoprotein has multifaceted physiological functions mediated by its' complex structure interacting with specific receptors and ligands. The involvement of AFP in carcinogenesis encompasses a broad spectrum of pathophysiological mechanisms, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and immune modulation. Alpha-fetoprotein contributes to the pathological landscape of several cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma and germ cell tumors, through an intricate network of signaling pathways. Recent studies highlight the expanding clinical applications of AFP, suggesting its potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer as well as monitoring genetic diseases, such as neural tube defects and Down syndrome. This comprehensive overview of AFP aims to elucidate the complex biological interactions and clinical implications in cancer management. How to cite this article: Alpha-fetoprotein: A Multifaceted Player in Cancer Biology. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2025;15(1):72-82.