Neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL) is expressed and secreted by immune
cells, hepatocytes, and renal tubular cells in various pathologic states. NGAL exerts
bacteriostatic effects, which are explained by its ability to capture and deplete siderophores,
small iron-binding molecules that are synthesized by certain bacteria as a means of iron
acquisition. Consistently, NGAL deficiency in genetically modified mice leads to an
increased growth of bacteria. However, growing evidence suggests effects of the protein …