Lipocalin-13 (LCN13) (LCN13)

Lipocalin-13 (LCN13) is a secreted protein belonging to the lipocalin superfamily, primarily characterized as a hepatokine that plays a critical role in systemic energy homeostasis [PubMed: 21646338]. It is predominantly expressed in the liver and secreted into the circulation, where its levels are significantly downregulated in animal models of obesity and type 2 diabetes [PubMed: 26153174]. LCN13 exerts its metabolic benefits by enhancing insulin signaling pathways, specifically through the activation of AKT, and by suppressing the expression of key gluconeogenic enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) [PubMed: 21646338]. Furthermore, it has been shown to alleviate hepatic steatosis by promoting fatty acid oxidation and reducing lipid accumulation in the liver [PubMed: 26153174]. While currently in the experimental stage, LCN13 is considered a promising therapeutic target for metabolic disorders, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance [UniProt: Q8R3Z0].

Other names

Lcn13Lipocalin 13ObisObesity-induced secreted protein

LCN13 acts as a metabolic regulator that improves insulin sensitivity by activating the AKT signaling pathway and inhibiting the transcription of gluconeogenic genes like G6Pase and PEPCK in the liver [PubMed: 21646338]. It also facilitates fatty acid oxidation, thereby reducing hepatic lipid accumulation and improving lipid profiles [PubMed: 26153174].