| 背景信息 |
FAM3 metabolism regulating signaling molecule C (FAM3C), also known as interleukin-like EMT inducer (ILEI), is a secreted protein characterized by a GG domain and is part of the FAM3 family, encoded by the FAM3C gene on human chromosome 7. Structurally, FAM3C exists as both monomers and covalent dimers, displaying a unique β-β-α fold rather than the classical four-helix-bundle typical of interleukins, indicating it is not evolutionarily related to interleukins. Functionally, FAM3C is implicated in promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process vital for development and wound healing but also associated with cancer metastasis. Its upregulation and mislocalization have been observed in several cancers, including breast and colon, correlating with poor prognosis and enhanced tumor formation and metastasis. Beyond oncology, reduced FAM3C levels are linked to the onset of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease. |