Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) in hepatic inflammation

Background: Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), also known as neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), is a small secreted adipokine that belongs to the family of lipocalins that are known for binding and transporting small hydrophobic molecules such as fatty acids, steroids and iron [1]. In the liver, LCN2 plays a protective role in inflammation, infection, injury and other forms of cellular stress. This was proven in the bile duct ligation and the carbon tetrachloride model [2]. Recently, we demonstrated that LCN2 regulates perilipin 5 (PLIN5) expression in primary hepatocytes [3].