Olfactomedin-like protein 3 (OLFML3)

Olfactomedin-like protein 3 (OLFML3) is a secreted glycoprotein belonging to the olfactomedin (OLF) domain-containing protein family. The human OLFML3 gene is located on chromosome 1p13.2 and encodes a protein of 406 amino acids, structurally characterized by an N-terminal signal peptide, a coiled-coil domain, and a C-terminal olfactomedin-like domain with N-linked glycosylation sites[2][3]. OLFML3 is primarily expressed in the placenta, with lower expression in liver, heart, sclera, and iris, and minimal expression in the brain[2][3]. Functionally, OLFML3 modulates immune responses and supports mitochondrial integrity in macrophages, particularly by interacting with immunoresponsive gene 1 (IRG1) to facilitate its mitochondrial localization and itaconate production, preventing excessive oxidative stress during inflammation[1]. Loss of OLFML3 results in increased inflammatory damage, especially in contexts such as acute lung injury[1]. The protein is also implicated in embryonic development, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis, reflecting broader roles in cell migration, tissue patterning, and tumorigenesis[2][3]. While OLFML3 is under investigation as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker in cancer and inflammatory diseases, no approved drugs currently target it directly.

Other names

Olfactomedin-like protein 3OLFML3PSEC0035PSEC0173PSEC0244UNQ663/PRO1294HNOEL-isoOLF44hOLF44ONT3 (mouse)ONT1 (chicken/Xenopus)