Afamin (AFM)

Afamin (AFM) is a secreted, monomeric glycoprotein that belongs to the albumin family of serum transport proteins, which also includes serum albumin, alpha-fetoprotein, and vitamin D binding protein[1][3]. It is primarily synthesized in the liver and circulates in blood at low microgram-per-milliliter concentrations[1][3]. Afamin’s biological functions include binding and transport of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) and acting as a carrier for Wnt proteins, thereby facilitating their solubility and availability for signaling, especially at the blood-brain barrier and in bone biology[1][2]. Recent studies have suggested that afamin may play a role as a chemoattractant for preosteoblasts, coupling bone resorption and formation, and as a unique carrier for several lipidated Wnt ligands distinct from other albumin family proteins[1][2]. Abnormal levels of afamin have been associated with several conditions, including pre-eclampsia, ovarian cancer, and both gestational and type 2 diabetes, suggesting its potential utility as a biomarker in these diseases[1][3]. There are currently no drugs known to act directly on afamin, and it is not considered a therapeutic target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter[1][3][4].

Other names

Alpha-albuminvitamin E binding proteinALB2ALBAAlpha-AlbALFalpha-Alb