Abstract
The adipose tissue serves as a major endocrine organ by secreting a large number of metabolically and/or immunologically active factors. One of the proteins secreted by adipose and other tissues is fasting-induced adipose factor (FIAF)/ angiopoietin-like protein 4 (Angptl4), a member of the family of angiopoietins and angiopoietin-like protein. Angptl4 forms higher order oligomers and upon secretion undergoes proteolytic processing to yield N- and C-terminal fragments. The best-characterized function of Angptl4 is as inhibitor of the enzyme lipoprotein lipase, leading to decreased clearance of plasma triglycerides. Additionally, Angptl4 promotes adipose tissue lipolysis. Data suggest that Angptl4 is retained in the extracellular matrix and governs angiogenesis by influencing the function of endothelial cells. Expression of Angptl4 is stimulated by fatty acids via peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and by hypoxia via hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha. In conclusion, Angptl4 is an adipokine with several biological activities with major impact on lipid metabolism.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Adipokines |
| Editors | V.R. Preedy, R.J. Hunter |
| Publisher | CRC Press |
| Chapter | 8 |
| Pages | 60-67 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781439879887, 9780429188299 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781138114418 |
| Publication status | Published - 2011 |