Syndecan-1

Syndecan-1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the SDC1 gene. It is a member of the syndecan family, a group of transmembrane proteoglycans that are involved in the binding of cells to the extracellular matrix, the intercellular matrix, and specific growth factors.

Structure

Syndecan-1 is a type I transmembrane protein that possesses a large extracellular domain, a single transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic domain. The extracellular domain is composed of three parts: a short N-terminal segment, a longer segment containing heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate chains, and a variable region that is unique to each syndecan. The cytoplasmic domain contains two conserved regions that are involved in intracellular signaling and interactions with the cytoskeleton.

Function

Syndecan-1 plays a crucial role in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, providing coreceptors for various growth factors. It is involved in cell proliferation, cell migration, cell adhesion, and angiogenesis. Syndecan-1 is also implicated in the regulation of inflammation and wound healing.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of Syndecan-1 have been associated with various types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and multiple myeloma. In multiple myeloma, high levels of Syndecan-1 are found in the serum and urine of patients, and it is used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker. In breast and prostate cancer, Syndecan-1 expression is often reduced, and this reduction is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis.

See also

• Syndecan
• Proteoglycan
• Extracellular matrix
• Cell adhesion
• Angiogenesis