Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 4 (IGFBP4) mRNA (IGFBP4)

Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 4 (IGFBP4) is a secreted protein that acts as a high-affinity carrier for insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2), primarily functioning as a potent inhibitor of their biological activities by preventing their interaction with the IGF-1 receptor (UniProt: P22692). The bioavailability of IGFs is regulated by the proteolytic cleavage of IGFBP4 by pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), a process that is itself IGF-dependent (PubMed: 11459773, PubMed: 10753915). In clinical diagnostics, the ratio of IGFBP4 to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in maternal serum is a validated biomarker used to assess the risk of spontaneous preterm birth (PubMed: 28213611). From a therapeutic perspective, IGFBP4 mRNA is a target for RNA-based interventions, such as antisense oligonucleotides and siRNA, which aim to modulate IGF signaling in diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disorders (PubMed: 25605115). Targeting the mRNA allows for the precise down-regulation of IGFBP4 protein levels, thereby potentially restoring IGF signaling in contexts where it is pathologically suppressed or altering the tumor microenvironment.

Other names

IBP4IGF-binding protein 4Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 4HT29-IGFBPIBP-4

Modulation of IGF bioavailability through mRNA degradation or translational inhibition