Regenerating islet-derived protein 1 alpha (REG1A)

Regenerating islet-derived protein 1 alpha (REG1A), also known as pancreatic stone protein or lithostathine, is a secreted protein belonging to the C-type lectin superfamily. It was originally identified in patients with chronic pancreatitis and was later found to be a potent mitogen for pancreatic beta cells, playing a crucial role in islet regeneration and the maintenance of glucose homeostasis. REG1A exerts its biological effects by binding to the EXTL3 receptor, which triggers downstream signaling through the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways to promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. Beyond the pancreas, it is expressed in the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, where it has been implicated in wound healing, gastric cancer progression, and the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. In therapeutic contexts, REG1A and its family members are being explored as recombinant protein treatments for diabetes and as diagnostic biomarkers for inflammatory and neoplastic conditions. However, its role as a growth factor presents challenges, as overexpression is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and potential safety concerns regarding oncogenesis.

Other names

Pancreatic stone proteinLithostathine-1-alphaIslet cells regeneration factorPancreatic thread proteinREGICRFP19PSPS1Regenerating protein I alpha

Activation of EXTL3 receptor signaling (PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways) to promote tissue repair and cell survival