
Alpha-fetoprotein receptor
Alpha-fetoprotein receptor is a protein that binds to alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a substance typically produced in the liver of developing fetuses and, in smaller amounts, in adults. The receptor is involved in various biological processes, including cell growth and differentiation. In adults, elevated levels of AFP can indicate liver diseases or certain cancers. By understanding how the AFP receptor works, researchers can develop better diagnostic tools and treatments for diseases like liver cancer, as monitoring AFP levels and their interaction with the receptor can provide valuable insights into a patient's health.