Collagen triple helix repeat containing 1

Collagen triple helix repeat containing 1 (also known as CTHRC1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CTHRC1 gene. It is a secreted protein that is uniquely expressed in the adventitia of injured and atherosclerotic blood vessels, and it promotes cell migration.

Function

CTHRC1 is a novel secretory protein that is involved in the regulation of collagen matrix assembly in the adventitia of blood vessels. It is expressed in the adventitia of injured and atherosclerotic blood vessels and promotes cell migration. The protein is not expressed in the uninjured and normal artery, but is highly expressed in injured and atherosclerotic arteries.

Structure

The CTHRC1 protein has a unique structure, with a collagen triple helix repeat (CTR) domain in the middle of the protein. This domain is responsible for the protein's ability to bind to collagen and promote its assembly. The CTR domain is flanked by two non-collagenous (NC) domains, which are thought to be involved in the protein's secretion and function.

Clinical significance

CTHRC1 has been implicated in a number of diseases, including cancer, atherosclerosis, and fibrosis. In cancer, it has been shown to promote tumor growth and metastasis. In atherosclerosis, it is thought to contribute to the disease by promoting the migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells. In fibrosis, it is thought to contribute to the disease by promoting the assembly of collagen, leading to the formation of fibrotic tissue.