The protein encoded by this gene is a secreted cytokine that induces cardiac myocyte hypertrophy in vitro. It has been shown to bind and activate the ILST/gp130 receoptor. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.CTF1 (Cardiotrophin 1) is a Protein Coding gene. Diseases associated with CTF1 include Neonatal Stroke and Hypertensive Heart Disease. Among its related pathways are NFAT and Cardiac Hypertrophy and Innate Immune System. GO annotations related to this gene include cytokine activity and leukemia inhibitory factor receptor binding.