IGF2BP1

IGF2BP1, or insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1, is an RNA-binding protein in the IGF2BP family. It was originally identified as ZBP1 (zip-code binding protein 1) and is also known as IMP1. The protein is encoded by the IGF2BP1 gene. IGF2BP1 is characterized by two N-terminal RNA recognition motif domains and four C-terminal KH domains that mediate RNA binding and protein–RNA interactions.

IGF2BP1 binds a repertoire of mRNAs, including IGF2, beta-actin (ACTB), c-Myc, and CD44, and regulates their stability, localization, and translation. Through recognition of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications on target transcripts, IGF2BP1 acts as an m6A reader to stabilize mRNA and modulate gene expression. The protein participates in cytoplasmic mRNA transport, often concentrating in ribonucleoprotein complexes that move mRNAs to cellular protrusions such as lamellipodia, thereby promoting cell migration.

During development, IGF2BP1 is highly expressed in fetal tissues and is downregulated in many adult tissues. Reactivation occurs in several cancers, where IGF2BP1 supports tumor growth and metastatic potential by enhancing the expression of oncogenic and pro-migration transcripts.

Clinical and research interest centers on IGF2BP1 as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. Elevated levels are associated with disease progression and poor prognosis in diverse cancer types, and strategies to disrupt IGF2BP1–mRNA interactions are being explored.