As a unique member of IGFBPs, studies have shown that IGFBP7 plays important roles in regulating cell proliferation, adhesion and differentiation in many cell lines.9, 10 IGFBP7 has also been implicated as a tumour suppressor in a variety of human malignancies including thyroid carcinoma,11 cholangiocarcinoma,12 gastric cancer,13 hepatocellular carcinoma14 and breast cancer.15 Notably, there is increasing evidence, suggesting that IGFBP7 is involved in bone metabolism. This evidence concerns the gene IGFBP7 and thyroid gland carcinoma.