Abstract
Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1) is a secreted glycoprotein that is implicated in a wide array of physiological processes, including inflammatory responses, tissue remodeling, apoptosis, and immune regulation. This protein is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous systemic diseases, including those affecting the respiratory system (e.g., asthma, pulmonary fibrosis), the cardiovascular system (e.g., atherosclerosis, hypertension), the nervous system (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, neuroinflammation), the digestive system (e.g., hepatic fibrosis), the urinary system (e.g., renal injury), the endocrine system (e.g., diabetes mellitus), the rheumatological and immune systems (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), the musculoskeletal system (e.g., osteoporosis), and the reproductive system (e.g., endometriosis). This review summarizes current understanding and recent advancements regarding the role of CHI3L1 in these systemic disorders. Advances in detection methodologies and a growing elucidation of its underlying mechanisms position CHI3L1 as a promising biomarker and therapeutic target, offering significant potential to advance early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and precision medicine for a diverse array of pathological conditions.
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