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Binding proteins for the insulin-like growth factors: structure, regulation and function
1Department of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW Australia.
Progress in Growth Factor Research
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) modulate IGF-I and IGF-II actions. This review details their purification, characterization, regulation, and biological roles.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Protein Science
Background:
- Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are crucial for growth and metabolism.
- IGF actions are modulated by specific binding proteins (IGFBPs).
- IGFBPs can exert both inhibitory and stimulatory effects on IGF signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of IGF binding proteins.
- To outline their purification and characterization.
- To discuss their regulation, circulating levels, and biological roles.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published studies on IGFBPs.
- Analysis of data on protein purification and characterization.
- Synthesis of information on IGFBP regulation and function.
Main Results:
- At least three distinct classes of IGFBPs exist, with varying structures and binding properties.
- IGFBPs bind both IGF-I and IGF-II.
- Production and circulating levels of IGFBPs are regulated.
Conclusions:
- IGFBPs are key regulators of IGF bioavailability and activity.
- Understanding IGFBPs is essential for comprehending IGF-mediated processes.
- Further research into IGFBP roles may reveal therapeutic targets.