Fetuin A / AHSG (A/AHSG) Human Active Protein

Alpha2-HS glycoprotein (AHSG), a glycoprotein present in the serum, is synthesized by hepatocytes. The AHSG molecule consists of two polypeptide chains, which are both cleaved from a proprotein encoded from a single mRNA. It is involved in several functions, such as endocytosis, brain development and the formation of bone tissue. The protein is commonly present in the cortical plate of the immature cerebral cortex and bone marrow hemopoietic matrix, and it has therefore been postulated that it participates in the development of the tissues. However, its exact significance is still obscure. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

FETUA: Promotes endocytosis, possesses opsonic properties and influences the mineral phase of bone. Shows affinity for calcium and barium ions. Alpha-2-HS glycoprotein derives from this precursor, when the connecting peptide is cleaved off. The two chains A and B are held together by a single disulfide bond. Synthesized in liver and selectively concentrated in bone matrix. Secreted in plasma. It is also found in dentin in much higher quantities than other plasma proteins. Belongs to the fetuin family.

Protein type: Secreted; Secreted, signal peptide

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 3q27

Cellular Component: extracellular space; extracellular region

Molecular Function: kinase inhibitor activity; cysteine protease inhibitor activity

Biological Process: pinocytosis; negative regulation of bone mineralization; ossification; positive regulation of phagocytosis; regulation of inflammatory response; acute-phase response; negative regulation of insulin receptor signaling pathway; negative regulation of phosphorylation; regulation of bone mineralization; skeletal development