Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein refers to the levels of a protein produced primarily by the foetus (alpha-fetoprotein) found in the mother blood (serum). In adults the function of this protein is largely unknown, however, in the foetus it is used to bind specific hormones to transport them in the blood. The levels of alpha-fetoprotein in the mothers circulation may be altered in cases of foetal neural tube defects or Downs Syndrome. In non-pregnant individuals the levels may be raised in certain types of cancers.
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