INSL3 polyclonal antibody

Insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3), also designated Leydig insulin-like peptide (Ley IL) and Relaxin-like factor (RLF), is a peptide hormone in the Relaxin family which is secreted from the testicular Leydig cells and ovarian theca interna cells. INSL3 is involved in gonadal and other physiological processes. Structurally similar to Relaxin and insulin, INSL3 differs from the two in that it signals through a G protein-coupled receptor, LGR8. INSL3/LGR8 signaling is involved in gubernaculum development and transabdominal testicular descent during development. Abnormal INSL3 production or action by the fetal testis causes cryptorchidism, a developmental defect of the urogenital tract in human males wherein the testis do not descend into the scrotum during embryonic development. Infertility and the development of germ-cell tumors are two potential risks for individuals with cryptorchidism.