The IGFBP7 gene encodes a protein called insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7).  Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding proteins (IGFBPs) are involved in promoting cell growth and division and preventing cells from undergoing apoptosis prematurely.   They bind IGFs with high affinity, and regulate IGF availability in body fluids and tissues and modulate IGF binding to its receptors.  The IGFBP7 protein binds IGF-I and IGF-II with a relatively low affinity.  It also stimulates prostacyclin (PGI2) production and cell adhesion.  

Defects in this protein have been associated with retinal arterial macroaneurysm, a disorder that affects blood vessels in the eyes and heart.