INSL3

This gene encodes a member of the insulin-like hormone superfamily. The encoded protein is mainly produced in gonadal tissues. Studies of the mouse counterpart suggest that this gene may be involved in the development of urogenital tract and female fertility. This protein may also act as a hormone to regulate growth and differentiation of gubernaculum, and thus mediating intra-abdominal testicular descent. Mutations in this gene may lead to cryptorchidism. Alternate splicing results in multiple transcript variants. [provided by RefSeq, May 2012]

Full Name

Insulin Like 3

Function

Seems to play a role in testicular function. May be a trophic hormone with a role in testicular descent in fetal life. Is a ligand for LGR8 receptor.

Biological Process

Adenylate cyclase-inhibiting G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathwayManual Assertion Based On ExperimentIBA:GO_Central
Cell-cell signalingManual Assertion Based On ExperimentTAS:ProtInc
Male gonad developmentIEA:Ensembl
Negative regulation of apoptotic processIEA:Ensembl
Negative regulation of cell population proliferationIEA:Ensembl
Oocyte maturationIEA:Ensembl
Positive regulation of cAMP-mediated signalingIEA:Ensembl
Positive regulation of cell population proliferationIEA:Ensembl
Positive regulation of epithelial cell migrationManual Assertion Based On ExperimentIDA:CACAO
Positive regulation of wound healingManual Assertion Based On ExperimentIDA:CACAO
SpermatogenesisManual Assertion Based On ExperimentTAS:ProtInc

Cellular Location

Secreted

Involvement in disease

Cryptorchidism (CRYPTO):
One of the most frequent congenital abnormalities in humans, involving 2-5% of male births. Cryptorchidism is associated with increased risk of infertility and testicular cancer.