Olfactomedin-1 (OLFM1)

Olfactomedin-1 (OLFM1) is a highly conserved, secreted glycoprotein containing an olfactomedin domain, predominantly expressed in the brain and retina. It exists in four main isoforms (arising from alternative promoter usage and splicing), some of which include the β-propeller olfactomedin domain. OLFM1 regulates neuronal development, synaptic architecture, and plasticity by interacting with multiple synaptic receptors—such as AMPA-type glutamate receptors and the Nogo A receptor complex—and modulators of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Dysregulation or altered serum levels of OLFM1 are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, notably Alzheimer’s disease, where lower OLFM1 correlates with cognitive decline and brain atrophy. OLFM1 may also play roles in cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. While it is not a classical therapeutic target (enzyme, receptor, etc.), it functions as a critical extracellular matrix/signaling protein essential for neural tissue maintenance and integrity. Structural studies reveal oligomeric assembly (monomer/dimer/tetramer) and highlight a central calcium-binding β-propeller core. No approved drugs currently target OLFM1 directly, but it may serve as a future biomarker or therapeutic candidate in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Other names

NoelinPancortinhOlfAAMYNOE1NOEL1NOELINOlfAneuroblastoma proteinneuronal olfactomedin-related ER localized proteinolfactomedin related ER localized proteinpancortin 1noelin1OLFM1