IGFBP7

IGFBP7 (Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 7) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IGFBP7 gene. It is a member of the insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) family and encodes a protein with an IGFBP domain and a thyroglobulin type-I domain. The protein binds both insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) I and II and circulates in the plasma. Binding of this protein prolongs the half-life of the IGFs and alters their interaction with cell surface receptors.

Function

IGFBP7 is a secreted protein that binds both insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) I and II and circulates in the plasma. The binding of this protein prolongs the half-life of the IGFs and alters their interaction with cell surface receptors. It is also known to play a role in cell growth, cell adhesion, and apoptosis.

Clinical Significance

Studies have shown that IGFBP7 plays a significant role in various diseases, including cancer. It has been identified as a tumor suppressor in some types of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. In contrast, it has been associated with poor prognosis in other types of cancer, such as melanoma and bladder cancer.

Research

Research into the role of IGFBP7 in disease progression and treatment is ongoing. Understanding the function of this protein could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer and other diseases.

See Also

• Insulin-like growth factor
• IGFBP
• Cancer
• Apoptosis