IGFBP7

IGFBP7, also known as insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7, is a low-affinity IGF-binding protein that plays a crucial role in regulating IGF availability and signaling. It binds to IGF-I and IGF-II with lower affinity compared to other IGFBPs, and its expression is regulated by various factors including cell type, tissue, and physiological state. IGFBP7 is involved in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and migration, and its dysregulation is associated with several diseases, including cancer, acute kidney injury, and reproductive disorders. The protein interacts with multiple signaling pathways, including the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and the TGF-β signaling pathway, and its role in these pathways contributes to its effects on cell behavior. Research on IGFBP7 is ongoing, with potential applications in disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, including the development of targeted therapies.