Diverse roles of angiopoietin-like 4 : a literature review.

Abstract

Angiopoietin-like (ANGPTL) proteins are a protein family structurally alike to angiopoietins, possessing analogous N-terminal coiled-coil and C-terminal fibrinogen-like domains (FLDs). Despite this, ANGPTLs are considered orphan ligands as they do not bind to angiopoietin receptors, and a specific ANGPTL receptor has yet to be identified. An ANGPTL of particular interest is ANGPTL4, having demonstrated effects in lipid and glucose metabolism, angiogenesis and cancer. Although investigations regarding ANGPTL4 have intensified in recent years, details regarding the role it plays in these processes remain largely unclear. This review aims to provide an overview of existing knowledge regarding ANGPTL4, providing possible directions for further studies based on current understanding of the protein’s roles and mechanisms. With abilities to impact vital biological processes, it is becoming increasingly clear that ANGPTL4 is a protein worthy of continued research. As more knowledge is unearthed, a potential therapeutic role for ANGPTL4 can be determined and refined.