These include the inhibition of osteoclast and osteoclast-like cells, the induction of heterotopic bone, a role in arthrodesia, possible constituent roles in the vascular matrix,[11] and possible roles in the proliferation of tumor cells.[12] OIF co-expresses with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the pituitary, and interacts with ACTH, maintaining the balance of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis functions.[13] Recent research has revealed that OIF is involved in the development of angiogenesis and atherosclerosis. This evidence concerns the gene POMC and neoplasm.