Alpha-foetoprotein (AFP): A multi-purpose marker in hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biochemistry
• Hepatology

Background:

• Alpha-foetoprotein (AFP) is a well-established protein tumor marker.
• Its utility in screening and diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains under discussion.
• Emerging research explores AFP's role beyond diagnosis, including therapeutic guidance and monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent studies on AFP quantification in HCC management.
• To highlight AFP's role in determining liver transplantation suitability and monitoring sorafenib treatment.
• To discuss novel insights into AFP regulation by tumor proteostasis and the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR).

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on AFP in HCC.
• Analysis of AFP's role in therapeutic decision-making and treatment monitoring.
• Exploration of new regulatory mechanisms of AFP, including proteostasis and UPR.

Main Results:

• AFP quantification is valuable for guiding liver transplantation and monitoring targeted therapies like sorafenib.
• Recent studies reveal AFP's active involvement in tumor progression.
• New regulatory pathways for AFP, involving tumor proteostasis and UPR, have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Updated understanding of AFP's role in HCC management, from diagnosis to treatment monitoring.
• Implications of novel AFP regulation mechanisms for interpreting serum levels and therapeutic strategies.
• New perspectives for studying tumor proteostasis using AFP as a marker.