ITLN1 has no effect on basal glucose uptake but enhances insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes.ITLN1 increases AKT phosphorylation in the absence and presence of insulin. ITLN1 may play a role in the defense system against microorganisms. ITLN1 may specifically recognize carbohydrate chains of pathogens and bacterial components containing galactofuranosyl residues, in a calcium-dependent manner. ITLN1 may be involved in iron metabolism.