IAPP

Full Name: Islet Amyloid Polypeptide

BACKGROUND: The protein encoded by this gene is commonly found in pancreatic islets of patients suffering diabetes mellitus type II, or harboring an insulinoma. Studies suggest that this protein, like the related beta-amyloid (Abeta) associated with Alzheimers disease, can induce apoptotic cell-death in particular cultured cells, an effect that may be relevant to the development of type II diabetes. This protein also exhibits an bactericidal, antimicrobial activity.

Synonyms: IAPP; Islet amyloid polypeptide; DAP; IAP; amylin