METRN

METRN or Meteorin is a protein that in humans is encoded by the METRN gene. This protein is known to have a role in neurogenesis and angiogenesis.

Function

METRN is a secreted protein that is expressed in various tissues, including the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). It is particularly abundant in the neural stem cells (NSCs) of the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the hippocampus. METRN is involved in the regulation of NSC proliferation and differentiation, and it promotes neuronal migration and astrocyte differentiation.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of METRN have been associated with several neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and brain tumors. In addition, METRN has been implicated in the regulation of angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels. This suggests that METRN may have potential therapeutic applications in conditions characterized by abnormal angiogenesis, such as cancer and ischemic diseases.

Research

Research on METRN is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and its potential as a therapeutic target in various diseases.

See also

• Neurogenesis
• Angiogenesis
• Protein
• Gene