The ANG gene in humans encodes angiogenin (ANG), also known as ribonuclease 5, a small protein of 123 amino acids. Angiogenin is a powerful inducer of angiogenesis, which results in the formation of new blood vessels. Ang interacts with DNA to affect protein synthesis levels and hydrolyzes cellular RNA, which increases the production of rRNA in a promoter-like manner. Through angiogenesis and by activating genes that prevent apoptosis, Ang is linked to neurological disorders and cancer (Lee 2013).
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