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Review
. 1983 Mar;28(3):216-24.
doi: 10.1007/BF01295116.

Role of the liver in clearance and excretion of circulating carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

P Thomas, N Zamcheck
Review

Role of the liver in clearance and excretion of circulating carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

P Thomas et al. Dig Dis Sci. 1983 Mar.

Abstract

CEA is a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of 200,000 containing 55%-65% carbohydrate. The removal of only two sialic acid residues result in rapid uptake from the circulation by the liver and catabolism in the lysosomes. There is a receptor on the plasma membrane of the hepatocyte (hepatic binding protein) which recognizes galactosyl residues. About 70% of 125I-labeled intact CEA is cleared by the liver in 1 hr. The exposure of terminal galactose residues by removing sialic acids determines the rate of clearance. CEA is probably initially taken up by Kupffer cells and transferred to hepatocytes. About 10% of CEA added to an isolated perfused liver appears in bile. Biliary duct obstruction and cholestasis may elevate plasma CEA levels due to detergent effects on the liver cell receptors.

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