REG1A Human

The REG1A gene was first identified in the context of pancreatic islet regeneration following partial pancreatectomy . The gene encodes a 166-amino acid preprotein, which includes a 22-amino acid N-terminal signal sequence that is cleaved in the secreted protein . The REG1A protein has a calculated molecular mass of approximately 18.7 kDa .

REG1A is predominantly expressed in the pancreas, with weaker expression observed in the gastric mucosa and kidney . It is a major component of the protein matrix of calculi in patients with chronic calcifying pancreatitis . The protein is involved in exocrine pancreatic function and accounts for 10 to 14% of total protein in pancreatic juice .

REG1A has multifunctional properties, including pro-proliferative, anti-apoptotic, differentiation-inducing, and bactericidal activities . These properties make it a significant player in various physiological and pathological processes.

Over the past four decades, REG1A and other Reg proteins have been implicated in a range of diseases, including diabetes, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, calcifying pancreatitis, and Alzheimer’s disease . Despite extensive research, the regulation of their expression and the exact molecular mechanisms underlying their functions remain areas of active investigation .

One of the major challenges in the field of Reg protein biology is the use of non-standard nomenclature among different research groups, which complicates the comparison of findings . Additionally, the existence of multiple Reg family members with significant homology and potentially compensatory functions adds to the complexity of studying these proteins .

Future research efforts should focus on standardizing assays and nomenclature to facilitate better understanding and therapeutic targeting of Reg proteins. Given their involvement in various diseases, REG1A and other Reg proteins hold promise as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets .