Insulin-like growth factor 2

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IGF2 gene. IGF-2 is a member of the insulin family of hormones, which play a key role in growth and development.

Function[edit | edit source]

IGF-2 is an important regulator of cell growth and cell division. It is particularly critical during fetal development, but continues to have effects throughout life. IGF-2 is produced by the liver and other tissues, and its production is controlled by growth hormone.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The IGF-2 protein is a single-chain polypeptide consisting of 67 amino acids. It shares structural similarities with insulin, including the presence of three disulfide bonds.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in the function of IGF-2 are associated with a variety of diseases. Overexpression of IGF-2 is seen in many cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer. Conversely, reduced levels of IGF-2 are associated with growth retardation and developmental delay.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD