Lipocalin 2 functions as a negative regulator of red blood cell production in an autocrine fashion

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Abstract
SPECIFIC AIMSMembers of the lipocalin protein family are typically small, secreted proteins that possess a variety of functions, including the regulation of the immune response and the mediation of cell homeostasis. Although the physiological role of lipocalin 2 remains to be fully elucidated, a few pivotal functions have recently been reported. These functions include regulation of the apoptosis of leukocytes, the transport of iron, and inhibition of bacterial growth by sequestration of the iron-laden siderophore. Initially, we unexpectedly found that lipocalin 2 is abundantly expressed in erythroid progenitor cells, progenitors of red blood cells (RBCs). To delineate the roles of lipocalin 2 in erythropoiesis, we assessed the functions of lipocalin 2 in the in vitro and in vivo models of erythropoiesis.PRINCIPAL FINDINGS1. Erythroid progenitor cells express and secrete lipocalin 2Human lipocalin 2 has been described as the neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). The expression of lipocalin 2 ...
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  • RIKEN