PGRN is an autocrine growth factor that plays a role in embryonic development, tissue repair, tumorigenesis, and inflammation. Recently, PGRN has been shown to bind directly to TNFR where it antagonizes TNF-(alpha) signaling, effectively blocking the pathogenesis of inflammatory arthritis in mice. Furthermore, elevated serum concentrations of PGRN are associated with visceral obesity, elevated plasma glucose, and dyslipidemia. In the central nervous system, PGRN is thought to be involved in neurotrophic activity and neuroinflammation.