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ABSTRACT
Introduction: The regenerating gene (Reg) was identified in regenerating islets and its related genes were revealed to constitute the Reg gene family. Reg family proteins act as growth factors for several cells. Recently, autoimmunity against the Reg family proteins has been reported in several diseases. In addition, the Reg family genes were found to be expressed in a large number of cancers and to influence prognosis.
Areas covered: The historical background and current view of the structure, function, and expression of Reg family genes/proteins and their physiological/pathological significance in several diseases are described. Based on the findings, the diagnostic/therapeutic potential of Reg family genes/proteins is also discussed.
Expert opinion: Autoimmunity against Reg family proteins may be a new diagnostic marker and/or therapeutic target for immune-mediated diseases. Treatment aimed at the expansion of the β-cell mass by the Reg genes/proteins, combined with the abrogation of autoimmunity, constitutes a potential approach for the treatment of diabetes. Conversely, some cancer cells have gained the ability to overexpress the Reg genes/proteins, thereby enhancing their proliferative capacities, resulting in these cells having a considerable growth advantage. Thus, the Reg genes/proteins are expected to be a new prognostic marker in cancer and/or a future therapeutic target.
Acknowledgements
I apologize to authors of relevant works who were not cited here due to space restrictions. I would like to thank the members of laboratories and collaborators who contributed to my efforts in this area, including the Department of Biochemistry, Nara Medical University, and the Departments of Biochemistry and Advanced Biological Sciences for Regeneration (Kotobiken Medical Laboratories), Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine.
Article highlights.
Historical background of pancreatic β-cell regeneration and identification of regenerating gene (Reg) expression on regenerating islets.
Structure, function and expression of Reg family genes/proteins in physiological and pathological conditions.
Reg protein receptor and its signal transduction system(s) in mammalian cells.
Transcriptional regulation of Reg gene expression in physiological and pathological conditions.
Possible involvement of Reg family proteins in several diseases and potential clinical uses of Reg family genes/proteins in diagnosis and therapy.
This box summarizes key points in the article.
Declaration of interest
S Takasawa was supported in part by Grant-in-Aid from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and Grant-in-Aid for Practical Application Research from the Japan Technology Agency (JST). The author has no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.