Cardiotrophin-1 signals via β receptor glycoprotein 130 (gp130) and β receptor leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR). It confers protective role on cardiac myocytes. Cardiotrophin-1 protects cardiomyocytes from cell death, however, it can also induce cardiac hypertrophy. It is also involved in neural tissue development and helps in protection of the mature nervous system from injuries and dysfunction. Cardiotrophin-1 also protects liver against injury. It is also involved in the control of body weight and intermediate metabolism. In mouse model, it protects β cells from apoptosis. It also promotes glucose-mediated insulin secretion. Absence of the cardiotrophin-1 gene in mice is associated with obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and hypercholesterolemia.
