| Modification Notes |
Plfr (Proliferin-related protein), also known as PRP, PLF-RP or Prolactin-7D1, is a glycoprotein belonging to the somatotropin/prolactin family of growth hormones. Plfr shares significant homology with all members of this family. Plfr is a potent placental antiangiogenic hormone secreted during mid to late gestation (peaking at day 12) in response to several angiogenic factors. In contrast to Proliferin, a promoter of placental neovascularization, Plfr may function to limit endothelial invasiveness and regulate the cessation of placental neovascularization. Plfr is produced by murine giant cells and spongiotrophoblasts. This localization suggests that Plfr may act to generate a barrier zone, preventing the criss-crossing of maternal blood vessels extending from the uterus and fetal vessels extending from the placenta. Although a human Plfr has not been characterized, the mouse hormone can induce antiangiogenic effects on human endothelial cells. This suggests that the Plfr signaling pathway is conserved between mouse and human. |
