DAN (protein)

DAN (protein) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the DAN gene. It is a member of the DAN family of secreted proteins, which are involved in suppressing bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways.

Function

The DAN gene is a member of the DAN family of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonists. The protein product of the DAN gene is a secreted glycoprotein that is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation. It functions by binding to BMPs and preventing them from interacting with their receptors, thereby inhibiting BMP signaling pathways.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the DAN gene have been associated with various diseases, including cancer and certain genetic disorders. For example, overexpression of the DAN gene has been observed in some types of cancer, suggesting that it may play a role in tumor progression.

See also

• Bone morphogenetic protein
• Cell proliferation
• Differentiation
• Cancer
• Genetic disorder