Angiopoietin 3

Angiopoietin 3
Identifiers
Symbol	?
HGNC	484
OMIM	603706
RefSeq	NM_014495
UniProt	Q9Y267
Search for Structures Swiss-model Domains InterPro

Angiopoietin 3 (ANGPT3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ANGPT3 gene. It is a member of the angiopoietin family of growth factors, which are involved in the development and maintenance of the vascular system.

Structure

Angiopoietin 3 is a secreted glycoprotein that consists of several distinct domains. These include an N-terminal super clustering domain, a central coiled-coil domain, and a C-terminal fibrinogen-like domain. The fibrinogen-like domain is crucial for binding to the Tie2 receptor, a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed on endothelial cells.

Function

Angiopoietin 3 plays a significant role in the regulation of angiogenesis, the process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels. Unlike its closely related family member, Angiopoietin 1, which primarily promotes blood vessel maturation and stability, Angiopoietin 3 is thought to act as an antagonist to the Tie2 receptor, thereby modulating the effects of Angiopoietin 1 and Angiopoietin 2.

Role in Lipid Metabolism

In addition to its role in angiogenesis, Angiopoietin 3 is involved in lipid metabolism. It has been shown to inhibit the activity of lipoprotein lipase, an enzyme critical for the hydrolysis of triglycerides in lipoproteins. This inhibition leads to increased levels of circulating triglycerides and free fatty acids.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of Angiopoietin 3 have been associated with various pathological conditions. Elevated levels of Angiopoietin 3 have been linked to hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis, conditions that are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, Angiopoietin 3 is being investigated as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of metabolic disorders and certain types of cancer.

Research and Therapeutic Potential

Recent studies have explored the potential of targeting Angiopoietin 3 for therapeutic purposes. Inhibitors of Angiopoietin 3 are being developed to treat hyperlipidemia and reduce cardiovascular risk. Additionally, the modulation of Angiopoietin 3 activity is being studied in the context of tumor angiogenesis, with the aim of developing novel anti-cancer therapies.

Also see

• Angiopoietin
• Tie2 receptor
• Angiogenesis
• Lipoprotein lipase
• Hyperlipidemia