Mouse Meteorin (METRN) Protein

Background

Meteorin, encoded by the METRN gene, is a secreted protein primarily involved in neural and glial cell differentiation and regeneration. METRN is expressed in the nervous system and functions as a neurotrophic factor, promoting neurite outgrowth and supporting the survival of glial progenitor cells. It is also implicated in modulating inflammatory responses in the central nervous system (CNS), playing a protective role in neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries. Meteorin activates the Jak/STAT and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways to exert its biological effects, including promoting astrocyte differentiation and maintaining the blood-brain barrier's integrity. Emerging studies suggest that METRN may also have a role in muscle regeneration and metabolic regulation, expanding its functional repertoire beyond the CNS.