Intelectin-1 (ITLN1) (ITLN1)

Intelectin-1 (ITLN1), also known as Omentin-1, is a 40 kDa secreted glycoprotein and adipokine primarily expressed in visceral adipose tissue and the small intestine (UniProt Q8WWA0). It functions as a calcium-dependent lectin that specifically recognizes galactofuranosyl residues, which are present in various bacterial and fungal cell walls but absent in mammalian cells, thereby playing a role in the innate immune response (PubMed 11313489). In the context of metabolism, ITLN1 acts as an insulin-sensitizing hormone that enhances insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes by activating the Akt/protein kinase B signaling pathway (PubMed 16540602). Low circulating levels of ITLN1 are associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, making it a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for metabolic disorders (PubMed 22403297). Additionally, ITLN1 has been implicated in various cancers, such as mesothelioma and colorectal cancer, where it may serve as a diagnostic marker or influence tumor progression through its effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis (PubMed 25650594). While a specific high-affinity cell-surface receptor for ITLN1 has not been definitively characterized, its biological effects are well-documented across multiple organ systems, and it remains a subject of intense research for its anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties.

Other names

Omentin-1OmentinIntelectin-1ITLNINTLHL-1Galactofuranose-binding lectin

Enhancement of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake via Akt signaling pathway activation and binding to bacterial galactofuranosyl residues for immune recognition.