Insights into the Functional Role of ADTRP (Androgen-Dependent TFPI-Regulating Protein) in Health and Disease

The novel protein ADTRP, identified and described by us in 2011, is androgen-inducible and regulates the expression and activity of Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor, the major inhibitor of the Tissue Factor-dependent pathway of coagulation on endothelial cells. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in ADTRP associate with coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction, and deep vein thrombosis/venous thromboembolism. Some athero-protective effects of androgen could exert through up-regulation of ADTRP expression. We discovered a critical role of ADTRP in vascular development and vessel integrity and function, manifested through Wnt signaling-dependent regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9. ADTRP also hydrolyses fatty acid esters of hydroxy-fatty acids, which have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects and can control metabolic disorders. Here we summarize and analyze the knowledge on ADTRP and try to decipher its functions in health and disease.