The uses of pregnancy-associated plasma protein A

The blood is tested for levels of two substances; hCG and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A. The result of this blood test and a detailed ultrasound scan, which measures the thickness at the back of the fetal neck, determines the risk of a birth disorder but does not diagnose a condition.

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A, Insulin-like growth factor binding protein-4 protease, PAPP-A-proMBP complex) is a large heterottetrameric glycoprotein of approximately 500 kDa, which was first discovered in serum from pregnant women. The hetreotetramer consists of two PAPP-A subunits and two proMBP subunits. Low maternal serum levels of PAPP-A in first trimester biochemical screening is used as a marker of Down’s syndrome.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, a health care provider will take blood to determine the current health of the mother and record vital information that may be needed over the course of the pregnancy and delivery. A fetal screening blood test helps identify a pregnancy that may be at risk for serious birth disorders and may also be offered during the first trimester.