This gene encodes a secreted peptide hormone and member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of proteins. The encoded protein is a ligand of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the structurally related erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 4 (ERBB4). The encoded protein may be involved in a wide range of biological processes including inflammation, wound healing, oocyte maturation, and cell proliferation. Additionally, the encoded protein may promote the progression of cancers of various human tissues. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2015] CIViC Summary for EREG Gene
Forensic Context
A study in humans investigated the EREG as a potential biomarker for gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) intake via qPCR in blood samples, but alterations in its expression relating to GHB intake could not be confirmed to a forensically sufficient degree, with no significant differences observed between case and control groups [Mehling et al. DOI:10.1007/S00414-017-1609-3]. In a separate human study on skin wound healing, the EREG was identified as an EGF family ligand marker and a paracrine pro-migratory signal predominantly expressed by wound macrophages, specifically Mac1 macrophages, and was noted to show reduced expression in chronic diabetic foot ulcers [Liu et al. DOI:10.1016/j.stem.2024.11.013].