Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein and its binding partners in the cartilage extracellular matrix: interaction, regulation and role in chondrogenesis

Matrix Biol. 2014 Jul:37:102-11. doi: 10.1016/j.matbio.2014.06.001. Epub 2014 Jul 2.

Abstract

Thrombospondins (TSPs) are widely known as a family of five calcium-binding matricellular proteins. While these proteins belong to the same family, they are encoded by different genes, regulate different cellular functions and are localized to specific regions of the body. TSP-5 or Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) is the only TSP that has been associated with skeletal disorders in humans, including pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH) and multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED). The pentameric structure of COMP, the evidence that it interacts with multiple cellular proteins, and the recent reports of COMP acting as a 'lattice' to present growth factors to cells, inspired this review of COMP and its interacting partners. In our review, we have compiled the interactions of COMP with other proteins in the cartilage extracellular matrix and summarized their importance in maintaining the structural integrity of cartilage as well as in regulating cellular functions.

Keywords: Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein; Complement system; Extracellular matrix; Growth factors; Proteases; Receptors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein / metabolism*
  • Chondrogenesis / physiology*
  • Extracellular Matrix Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Musculoskeletal Abnormalities / genetics
  • Musculoskeletal Abnormalities / metabolism*
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Interaction Mapping
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary

Substances

  • Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein
  • Extracellular Matrix Proteins