Multifaceted roles of Isthmin-1 in health and disease: mechanism and therapeutic intervention

Isthmin-1 (ISM1) is a secreted protein with multiple functions, containing a thrombospondin type 1 repeat domain and an AMOP domain. The initial studies mainly involved growth and development, metabolism, and tumor invasion. Numerous studies have demonstrated that this molecule is expressed in multiple tissues and organs. As a newly defined adipokine, it plays an essential role in various pathophysiological processes including apoptosis, angiogenesis, immune inflammation, renal function, cardiopulmonary function, aging, etc., through endocrine or autocrine pathways. ISM1 can promote glucose uptake, inhibit hepatic steatosis, and stimulate protein synthesis. Moreover, ISM1 plays an important role in the occurrence and development of cancer by regulating apoptosis, angiogenesis and immune inflammation. In addition, ISM1 is associated with acute lung injury, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergic asthma. Although functional studies of ISM1 have been initiated, the biological functions of ISM1 remain largely unknown. In the present review, we summarize relevant research results in recent years and describe the key features of ISM1 biological functions. We explore the potential application of ISM1 in related diseases, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of various diseases.