Family with sequence similarity 117 member A (FAM117A)

Family with sequence similarity 117 member A (FAM117A), also known as C/EBP-induced protein, encodes a protein of unknown physiologic function that was identified as being induced by CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP)[2]. It is not classified as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or a commonly drugged therapeutic target, but rather as a potential *tumor suppressor* based on functional and gene expression studies[2]. FAM117A is notable for negatively regulating cell cycle progression: decreased expression in lung cancer tissues is associated with accelerated cell cycle progression, increased cell proliferation, and poor clinical outcomes[2]. It is considered a prognostic biomarker in lung adenocarcinoma, where lower expression predicts worse survival[2]. Mechanistically, FAM117A can trigger cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase and its loss is associated with elevated expression of cyclin D and reduced levels of cell cycle inhibitors p21 and p27[2]. There are currently no known drugs that specifically target FAM117A, nor confirmed mechanisms of action or established safety concerns related to therapeutics targeting this molecule[2][1]. Its molecular family is not well-defined, but it is structurally related to FAM117B and is categorized as an "Other" type of protein (not an enzyme, receptor, transporter, etc.)[1]. The protein's role in disease beyond cancer remains unclear as functional characterization is limited[1].

Other names

Protein FAM117AC/EBP-induced proteinC/EBP induced protein