IGFBP-2

IGFBP-2, encoded by the IGFBP2 gene, is the second most abundant IGF-binding protein in adult circulation and the dominant one in fetal serum. It carries IGFs through the bloodstream and interacts with cell surfaces through an RGD motif that engages integrins, allowing IGF-dependent and IGF-independent signaling. IGFBP-2 is prominent during development and in injury repair, and it is one of the few IGFBPs frequently upregulated in malignancy: elevated serum and tissue levels correlate with progression in glioma, prostate, colorectal and hepatocellular cancers, where it has been explored as a biomarker. IGFBP-2 also influences bone metabolism and adiposity in metabolic studies.