Thrombospondin-1

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the THBS1 gene. It is a multi-functional glycoprotein that is part of the extracellular matrix in various tissues. Thrombospondin-1 plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, cell migration, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis.

Structure

Thrombospondin-1 is a large trimeric glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 450,000 Daltons. It is composed of three identical subunits, each of which is heavily glycosylated. The protein has a complex structure, with multiple domains that interact with a variety of cellular receptors and other extracellular matrix proteins.

Function

Thrombospondin-1 is secreted into the extracellular matrix where it interacts with a variety of other proteins and glycosaminoglycans. It plays a key role in cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions by binding to a variety of cellular receptors. Thrombospondin-1 has been shown to play a role in the regulation of cell growth, cell migration, and angiogenesis. It is also involved in wound healing and tissue repair.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression of Thrombospondin-1 have been associated with a variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and fibrosis. In cancer, Thrombospondin-1 has been shown to have both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects, depending on the context. It has been suggested as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of cancer and other diseases.

See also

• Thrombospondin
• Extracellular matrix
• Angiogenesis

External links

• GeneCards - THBS1