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Elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein and impaired immune response in malnutrition

R K Chandra, R A Bhujwala

    International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology
    |January 1, 1977
    PubMed

    Insights

    Elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in malnourished children indicates liver dysfunction and immune response modulation. Nutritional deficiency in rats also increased AFP levels, affecting immune function.

    Area of Science:

    • Biochemistry
    • Immunology
    • Pediatrics

    Background:

    • Malnutrition can impact various physiological markers.
    • Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein with known roles in fetal development.
    • The influence of malnutrition on AFP and its immunomodulatory effects require further investigation.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels in malnourished children.
    • To explore the relationship between AFP, liver dysfunction, and nutritional status.
    • To examine the effect of nutritional deprivation on AFP in a rat model and its impact on immune response.

    Main Methods:

    • Serum AFP levels were measured in 33 malnourished children.
    • Nutritional deficiency was induced in growing rats.
    • Immune response was assessed by measuring antibody formation to sheep red blood cells after AFP administration.

    Main Results:

    • Elevated serum AFP was observed in 11 of 17 fetally growth-retarded infants and 5 of 16 with postnatal nutritional deficiency.
    • Most children with high AFP showed signs of liver dysfunction.
    • Nutritional deprivation in rats increased AFP levels, particularly in offspring of starved mothers.
    • Administered AFP reduced antibody formation in rats.

    Conclusions:

    • Increased serum AFP in malnourished children is linked to liver dysfunction.
    • Nutritional status significantly affects AFP levels.
    • AFP may play a role in modulating the immune response, potentially suppressing it.

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