Fetuin-A, also known as alpha-2-HS glycoprotein, is a 59 kDa glycoprotein that
consists of two amino-terminal cystatin domains and a smaller carboxyl-terminal
domain. Fetuin-A is synthesized by the liver and secreted into blood stream, where its
concentration in adult mammals ranges from 0.5 – 1.5 g/L. Fetuin-A occurs in high
serum concentration during fetal life and involves in protease inhibitory activities and
development-associated regulation of calcium metabolism and osteogenesis. It
accumulates in bones and teeth as a major fraction of noncollagenous bone proteins.
Biologically, studies have demonstrated that Fetuin-A is the major calcification inhibitor
found in serum, where it interferes with calcium salt precipitation. A Fetuin-A gene
knockout mouse develops massive cardiovascular and soft tissue calcification.
This kit is CE marked and for IVD use in Europe.