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Updated: Mar 15, 2026

Gastrointestinal Motility Monitor GIMM
Published on: December 1, 2010
Pathophysiological role of guanylate-binding proteins in gastrointestinal diseases
Nathalie Britzen-Laurent1, Christian Herrmann1, Elisabeth Naschberger1
1Nathalie Britzen-Laurent, Elisabeth Naschberger, Michael Stürzl, Division of Molecular and Experimental Surgery, Department of Surgery, University Medical Center Erlangen, Translational Research Center, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
Abstract:
Guanylate-binding proteins (GBPs) are interferon-stimulated factors involved in the defense against cellular pathogens and inflammation. These proteins, particularly GBP-1, the most prominent member of the family, have been established as reliable markers of interferon-γ-activated cells in various diseases, including colorectal carcinoma (CRC) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). In CRC, GBP-1 expression is associated with a Th1-dominated angiostatic micromilieu and is correlated with a better outcome. Inhibition of tumor growth by GBP-1 is the result of its strong anti-angiogenic activity as well as its direct anti-tumorigenic effect on tumor cells. In IBD, GBP-1 mediates the anti-proliferative effects of interferon-γ on intestinal epithelial cells. In addition, it plays a protective role on the mucosa by preventing cell apoptosis, by inhibiting angiogenesis and by regulating the T-cell receptor signaling. These functions rely to a large extent on the ability of GBP-1 to interact with and remodel the actin cytoskeleton.
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