Oncostatin

Oncostatin is a type of protein that is encoded in humans by the OSM gene. It is a member of the interleukin 6 group of cytokines, which are cellular signaling proteins involved in a variety of biological processes. Oncostatin has been found to inhibit the growth of some tumor cells, and promote the growth of others. It also has important roles in inflammation, bone remodeling, and the development of the nervous system.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Oncostatin is a 28 kDa protein that is primarily produced by activated T cells and macrophages. It is a single-chain polypeptide that shares structural similarities with other members of the interleukin 6 group of cytokines.

Function[edit | edit source]

Oncostatin has a wide range of biological activities. It can inhibit the growth of some tumor cells, and promote the growth of others. It also has important roles in inflammation, bone remodeling, and the development of the nervous system. In addition, oncostatin has been found to stimulate the production of other cytokines, such as interleukin 1 and interleukin 6, and to enhance the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) on endothelial cells.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Due to its diverse biological activities, oncostatin has potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of various diseases. For example, it could be used to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer, or to promote bone growth in patients with osteoporosis. However, more research is needed to fully understand the functions of oncostatin and its potential uses in medicine.

See also[edit | edit source]

Oncostatin Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.