Microfibrillar-associated protein 3-like (MFAP3L)

Microfibrillar-associated protein 3-like (MFAP3L) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein of the MAGP family primarily involved in microfibril assembly, tissue homeostasis, and elastinogenesis[2][6]. MFAP3L has a single-pass transmembrane topology with extracellular (glycosylated and phosphorylated) and cytoplasmic (SH2 motif) domains[6]. It is broadly expressed, with especially high levels in the testis and prostate[3], and functions in cell adhesion, migration, and extracellular matrix organization[8]. MFAP3L is implicated in cancer biology, serving as both a predictor of colorectal cancer metastasis and a molecular subclass marker in bladder cancer[3][6][7]. Its expression levels stratify tumors by immune infiltration, guiding decisions regarding immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors), targeted therapies (e.g., EGFR pathway inhibitors), and other management strategies[3]. Mechanistically, MFAP3L may participate in nuclear EGFR/MAPK signaling, modulate cell survival, and interact with growth factors such as TGF-beta and Notch ligands[6][7]. While therapeutic targeting is under investigation, MFAP3L does not currently have approved direct pharmacological modulators, but may serve as a valuable biomarker for patient selection and therapeutic monitoring in oncology[3][6][7].

Other names

MFAP3LMicrofibril-associated protein 3-likeMicrofibrillar-associated protein 3-likeKIAA0626HSD-39HSD39NYD-sp9Testis development protein NYD-SP9LOC101928198

Indirect: Drugs targeting EGFR or ERK pathways may affect MFAP3L downstream signaling in cancers. Indirect: Immunotherapy (ICI—immune checkpoint inhibitors) efficacy modulated by MFAP3L expression signature in bladder cancer.