Hormonal activity of AIMP1/p43 for glucose homeostasis.

AIMP1/p43 is known as a cytokine working in the control of angiogenesis, inflammation, and wound healing. Here we report its enrichment in pancreatic alpha cells and glucagon-like hormonal activity. AIMP1 is secreted from the pancreas upon glucose starvation. Exogenous infusion of AIMP1 increased plasma levels of glucose, glucagon, and fatty acid, and AIMP1-deficient mice showed reduced plasma glucose levels compared with the wild-type mice under fasting conditions. Thus, AIMP1 plays a glucagon-like role in glucose homeostasis.