Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A

Pappalysin-1 also known as pregnancy-associated plasma protein A is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the PAPPA is_associated_with::gene. Pappalysin-1 is used in screening tests for is_associated_with::Down syndrome.

Function
This is_associated_with::gene encodes a secreted is_associated_with::metalloproteinase which cleaves is_associated_with::insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs). It is thought to be involved in local proliferative processes such as is_associated_with::wound healing and is_associated_with::bone remodeling. Low plasma level of this is_associated_with::protein has been suggested as a biochemical marker for is_associated_with::pregnancies with is_associated_with::aneuploid is_associated_with::fetuses (fetuses with an abnormal number of is_associated_with::chromosomes). For example, low PAPPA may be seen in is_associated_with::prenatal screening for is_associated_with::Down syndrome. Low levels may alternatively predict issues with the is_associated_with::placenta, resulting in adverse complications such as is_associated_with::intrauterine growth restriction, is_associated_with::preeclampsia, is_associated_with::placental abruption, is_associated_with::premature birth, or is_associated_with::fetal death.

Interactions
Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A has been shown to interact with is_associated_with::Major basic protein.