Fetuin

by Katarzyna M. Dziegielewska, William H. Brown

Overview

This book is about one plasma protein, fetuin. Once the connection was made between fetuin and its human counterpart - alpha2HS glycoprotein - , structural analysis showed fetuin to be a member of the cystatin family. First descriptions of fetuin implicated its role in development. Fetuin is a major component of fetal calf serum and was thought to have special growth-promoting activity. The main interest in fetuin stems from the observation that in the early developing brain fetuin is expressed by a specific layer of cortical neurons. In this book the current knowledge of fetuin structure and function is compiled. In addition, recent findings pointing to fetuin's possible function in the nervous and immune systems are presented.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781570592133
Publisher:	Landes Bioscience
Publication date:	01/01/1995
Series:	Molecular Biology Intelligence Unit Series
Pages:	178
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.10(h) x 0.70(d)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction.- 2. Structure of the Fetuins.- 3. Fetuin and the Cystatins.- 4. Functions of Fetuin.- 5. Fetuin in Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid.- 6. Fetuin in Tissue Development.- 7. Future and Conclusions.

Editorial Reviews

This book reviews the current basic research on the glycoprotein fetuin. It is written by two investigators who were responsible for demonstrating the homology between bovine fetuin and human a2-HS glycoprotein. The book s purpose is to provide a comprehensive review of current research on fetuin. In this respect the book is a unique resource and thorough treatment of research in this area. The book will be especially helpful for basic scientists and graduate students interested in fetuin, other members of the cystatin superfamily, or fetal proteins in general. The text includes a description of the structure of fetuins and their relationship to other members of the cystatin superfamily. The distribution of fetuin during fetal development is described in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid as well as in tissues as diverse as brain and bone marrow. One entire chapter is devoted to potential functions of the molecule. The references are extensive and up-to-date. A consistent theme throughout the book is the fact that despite a vast amount of information on the fetuins, little is known continuing education. The authors do a commendable job compiling current observations into a form that generates educated speculation on potential functions of fetuin. The apparent focus of this book is narrow, yet scientists from many disciplines will find it surprisingly interesting. This is because fetuin has been postulated to act as a protease inhibitor, an insulin-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, a carrier of bioactive compounds, a modulator of bone formation and immune function, and a potential marker for cell death.

Thomas M. Schmid