A family of tissue-specific resistin-like molecules

Claire M. Steppan, Elizabeth J. Brown, Christopher M. Wright, Savitha Bhat, Ronadip R. Banerjee, Charlotte Y. Dai, Gregory H. Enders, Debra G. Silberg, Xiaoming Wen, Gary D. Wu, Mitchell A. Lazar

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

583 Scopus citations

Abstract

We have identified a family of resistin-like molecules (RELMs) in rodents and humans. Resistin is a hormone produced by fat cells. RELMα is a secreted protein that has a restricted tissue distribution with highest levels in adipose tissue. Another family member, RELMβ, is a secreted protein expressed only in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon, in both mouse and human. RELMβ gene expression is highest in proliferative epithelial cells and is markedly increased in tumors, suggesting a role in intestinal proliferation. Resistin and the RELMs share a cysteine composition and other signature features. Thus, the RELMs together with resistin comprise a class of tissue-specific signaling molecules.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)502-506
Number of pages5
JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Volume98
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 16 2001

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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