Igf2-KO Mouse

Igf2, or insulin-like growth factor 2, is a paternally expressed growth-promoting gene. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of human embryonic growth and development, and also impacts adults' physiology [1,5]. IGF2 is involved in multiple signaling pathways such as the IGF2-IGF1R pathway, which has been linked to various cellular processes like cell proliferation, migration, and invasion [2,3].

In animal and human studies, many innovative techniques have been used to explore the complex regulation of IGF2 expression. For instance, IGF2 mutations have been found to be a rare but important cause of Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS), with specific phenotypic differences compared to those with H19/IGF2:IG-DMR epimutations [1]. In cancer research, IGF2 has been shown to be upregulated in cancer-associated fibroblasts, promoting colorectal cancer progression through the crosstalk of the IGF2-IGF1R and Hippo-YAP1 signaling pathways [2]. Also, in adrenocortical carcinoma, IGF2 can influence cell proliferation, metabolism, and viability [4].

In conclusion, Igf2 is essential for growth and development, with its dysregulation being associated with various diseases such as SRS and multiple cancers. Studies using gene knockout or other genetic models have been instrumental in revealing its role in these biological processes and disease conditions, providing valuable insights for understanding disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.