Lactadherin

Lactadherin, also known as Milk Fat Globule-EGF Factor 8 Protein (MFG-E8), is a protein that in humans is encoded by the MFGE8 gene. It is a secreted protein that plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, immune response, and apoptosis.

Structure

Lactadherin is a glycoprotein that consists of two EGF-like domains and two discoidin domains. The EGF-like domains are responsible for the protein's ability to bind to phosphatidylserine, a phospholipid that is exposed on the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane during apoptosis. The discoidin domains, on the other hand, are involved in the protein's ability to bind to integrins, a family of cell adhesion receptors.

Function

Lactadherin plays a key role in the immune system. It promotes the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells, thereby preventing the release of pro-inflammatory cellular contents and maintaining immune tolerance. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

In addition to its role in the immune system, lactadherin is involved in the maintenance of epithelial cell integrity. It promotes cell adhesion and migration, and it has been shown to play a role in wound healing.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of lactadherin have been associated with various diseases. For example, decreased levels of lactadherin have been observed in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disease. On the other hand, increased levels of lactadherin have been associated with cancer progression and metastasis.

See also

• Milk fat globule
• EGF-like domain
• Discoidin domain
• Phosphatidylserine
• Integrin
• Systemic lupus erythematosus