Summary
The localization and sites of synthesis of α-fetoprotein in chick embryos throughout development have been investigated using the combined techniques of immunofluorescence microscopy and tissue culture in the presence of radiolabelled amino acids, followed by immunoautoradiographic analysis.
Alpha-fetoprotein is present in a range of embryonic tissues and especially concentrated in the yolk sac, liver and connective tissue. Analysis of culture fluids revealed that the yolk sac is the major site of α-fetoprotein synthesis with smaller, but significant quantities being produced by the liver.
These results are discussed in relation to mammalian α-fetoprotein, and the merits of the chick embryo for studies on the biological function of AFP are considered.
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Supported by an award from the Science Research Council, to whom grateful acknowledgement is made
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Slade, B., Milne, J. Localization and synthesis of α-fetoprotein in the chicken. Cell Tissue Res. 180, 414–419 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00227605
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00227605