Tetranectin

Tetranectin is a protein that is encoded by the CLEC3B gene in humans. It is a member of the C-type lectin family and is involved in various biological processes, including fibrinolysis, tissue remodeling, and cell proliferation.

Structure

Tetranectin is a trimeric protein, meaning it is composed of three identical subunits. Each subunit contains a C-type lectin domain, which is responsible for binding to specific carbohydrate structures. The protein is primarily found in the extracellular matrix and is known to interact with plasminogen, a key enzyme in the fibrinolytic system.

Function

Tetranectin plays a crucial role in the fibrinolytic system by enhancing the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin clots. This function is important for maintaining normal blood flow and preventing thrombosis. Additionally, tetranectin is involved in tissue remodeling processes, such as wound healing and bone development.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in tetranectin levels have been associated with various diseases. For instance, decreased levels of tetranectin have been observed in patients with cancer, particularly in breast cancer and colorectal cancer. This suggests that tetranectin may serve as a potential biomarker for certain types of cancer. Furthermore, tetranectin levels have been linked to osteoporosis, as it is involved in bone metabolism.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise mechanisms by which tetranectin influences cell proliferation and tissue remodeling. Studies are also investigating its potential role as a therapeutic target in cancer treatment and bone disorders.

See Also

• C-type lectin
• Fibrinolysis
• Plasminogen
• Extracellular matrix

External Links

• [Tetranectin at UniProt](https://www.uniprot.org/uniprot/P05452)
• [GeneCards: CLEC3B](https://www.genecards.org/cgi-bin/carddisp.pl?gene=CLEC3B)