Abstract
The persistent challenge of sepsis-related mortality underscores the necessity for deeper insights. Our multicenter, cross-age cohort study identified insulin-like growth factor binding protein 6 (IGFBP6) as a critical regulator in sepsis diagnosis, prognosis, and mortality risk evaluation. Mechanistically, IGFBP6 engages in IGF-independent binding to prohibitin2 (PHB2) on epithelial cells, driving PHB2 tyrosine phosphorylation during sepsis. This process disrupts STAT1 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and its recruitment to the CCL2 promoter, ultimately impairing CCL2 transcription and macrophage chemotaxis. Crucially, PHB2 silencing via siPHB2 and STAT1 activation using 2-NP restored CCL2 expression in vitro and in vivo, improving bacterial clearance and survival in septic mice. Concurrently, IGFBP6 compromised macrophage bactericidal activity by inhibiting Akt phosphorylation, reducing ROS/IL-1β production and phagocytic capacity — defects reversible by Akt agonist SC79. Collectively, IGFBP6 emerges as an endogenous driver of sepsis pathogenesis, positioning it as a dual diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target. Intervention strategies targeting IGFBP6-mediated signaling may offer transformative approaches for sepsis management.
Authors
Kai Chen, Ying Hu, Xiaoyan Yu, Hong Tang, Yanting Ruan, Yue Li, Xun Gao, Qing Zhao, Hong Wang, Xuemei Zhang, David Paul Molloy, Yibing Yin, Dapeng Chen, Zhixin Song
Figure 9
IGFBP6 impairs macrophage-mediated bacterial phagocytosis and killing.
Copyright © 2026 American Society for Clinical Investigation
ISSN: 0021-9738 (print), 1558-8238 (online)