Regenerating family member 1 alpha (REG1A)

Regenerating family member 1 alpha (REG1A, also known as pancreatic stone protein or lithostathine-1-alpha) is a secreted protein predominantly produced by pancreatic acinar cells and plays critical roles in tissue regeneration, anti-apoptotic signaling, cell proliferation, and inflammation, particularly in the digestive system and pancreas[1][3][4]. REG1A is a type I member of the regenerating gene family with a C-type lectin-like domain. It is upregulated in response to pancreatic injury or inflammation and contributes to islet cell repair, beta-cell renewal, and recovery following pancreatitis or other tissue injuries. Aberrant expression is linked to several malignancies (where it can enhance tumor cell invasion and progression), chronic inflammatory diseases, and the development of pancreatic stones. Its circulating levels can serve as biomarkers in sepsis and other disease states, and while its direct targeting as a druggable node is still experimental, REG1A represents an emerging therapeutic and diagnostic focus in regenerative medicine and oncology[1][2][3][4].

Other names

Pancreatic stone proteinLithostathine-1-alphaIslet cells regeneration factor (ICRF)Islet of Langerhans regenerating proteinP19Pancreatic thread protein (PTP)REGREG1PSPSPSPS1REG1A (official gene symbol)regenerating family member 1 α

REG1A enhances tissue regeneration by promoting cell proliferation, survival, and tissue repair. It modulates inflammatory and cytokine signaling (e.g., MAPK, IL-6 pathways) and acts as a paracrine/autocrine growth and survival factor. In chronic pancreatitis, it activates pancreatic stellate cells, mediating fibrosis[2].