MDK, MK1, NEGF2, Midkine, MK, Amphiregulin-associated protein, ARAP, Midgestation and kidney protein, Neurite outgrowth-promoting factor 2, Neurite outgrowth-promoting protein
This gene encodes a member of a small family of secreted growth factors that binds heparin and responds to retinoic acid. The encoded protein promotes cell growth, migration, and angiogenesis, in particular during tumorigenesis. This gene has been targeted as a therapeutic for a variety of different disorders. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding multiple isoforms have been observed. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2012],function:Has heparin binding activity, and growth promoting activity. Involved in neointima formation after arterial injury, possibly by mediating leukocyte recruitment. Also involved in early fetal adrenal gland development.,induction:By heparin and retinoic acid.,similarity:Belongs to the pleiotrophin family.,subunit:Homodimer.,
