AHSG

AHSG, also known as alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein or fetuin-A, is a secreted plasma glycoprotein primarily produced by the liver. The AHSG gene encodes this protein in humans and is located on chromosome 3q27. Fetuin-A circulates in the bloodstream and participates in various aspects of mineral metabolism, inflammation, and metabolic regulation.

Biological roles of fetuin-A include inhibition of ectopic mineralization. It acts as a systemic inhibitor of calcium phosphate precipitation by binding calcium and phosphate and stabilizing calciprotein particles, thereby protecting soft tissues from mineral deposition. In addition, fetuin-A is involved in metabolic and immune processes; it can influence insulin signaling and modulate inflammatory pathways, with evidence that its circulating levels reflect metabolic state and inflammatory status. Some studies describe anti-inflammatory functions, while others associate fetuin-A with pro-inflammatory effects in obesity and related disorders.

Clinically, fetuin-A levels have been explored as a biomarker and potential mediator in metabolic and kidney diseases. Associations have been reported between altered fetuin-A levels and conditions such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, as well as vascular calcification. The direction and strength of these associations can vary across populations and contexts, and causal relationships remain an area of active investigation.

Research on AHSG/fetuin-A continues to illuminate its roles in mineral and energy metabolism, vascular biology, and immune signaling. While not itself a therapeutic agent, understanding its functions contributes to insights into metabolic and calcification disorders and their potential management.