Fibronectin (Fn) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein with a wide spectrum of physiological functions. Multiple isoforms of Fn are generated through alternate splicing and proteolysis2. Majority of Fn present in serum or plasma is termed plasma Fn (pFn) which is soluble and produced by hepatocytes. Cellular fibronectin (cFn) is produced by numerous cell types including fibroblasts, endothelial cell and smooth muscle cells3. Specific variants of Fn have the potential to serve as informative biomarkers reflecting the potential known roles of Fn in homeostasis, cell migration, vessel remodeling, inflammation and embryonic differentiation4,5. Both pFn and cFn exhibit complex patterns of glycosylation6. Onco-fetal Glycosylated Fn is a known marker for preterm birth7. Specific glycosylated form of Fn (preferential binding to SNA and other lectins reflecting sialic acid and fucose carbohydrates) is elevated in metabolic complications of pregnancy8. Maternal serum Glycosylated Fn levels are elevated in preeclampsia and its potential complications1. Elevated GlyFn levels in serum during second and third trimester predict risk of PE and potential adverse outcomes.
References:
1. Rasanen J, Quin MJ, Laurie A, et al. Maternal serum glycosylated fibronectin as a point-of care biomarker for assessment of preeclampsia. Am J Obstet Glynecol, 2015; 212, 82. e1-9.
2. Pankov R, Yamada KM. Fibronectin at a glance. J Cell Sci 2002; 115: 3861-3.
3. To WS, Midwood KS. Plasma and cellular fibronectin: distinct and independent functions during tissue repair. Fibrogenesis Tissue Repair 2011; 4: 21-50.
4. Khan MM, Gandhi C, Chauhan N, et al. Alternatively spliced extra domain A of fibronectin promotes acute inflammation and brain injury after cerebral ischemia in mice. Stroke 2012; 435: 1376-82.
5. Chiang H-Y, Korshunov VA, Serour A, Shi F, Sottile J. Fibronectin is an important regulator of flow-induced vascular remodeling. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2009; 29: 1074-9.
